ISLAMABAD, AUG 21 /DNA/ – Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke on the telephone today with the Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Mr. Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen, to exchange views on the rapidly changing situation in Afghanistan.

The Foreign Minister underscored that Pakistan will continue to play its constructive role in promoting sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan. He expressed the hope that Afghan parties would work for an inclusive political settlement. The success of negotiations in Kabul would not only benefit Afghanistan but also the region.

The Foreign Minister stressed on the importance of ensuring the safety, security and protection of the rights of Afghan people.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that it was imperative for the international community to remain engaged with Afghanistan including by supporting the country’s economy, reconstruction, rehabilitation and humanitarian needs. He added that it was also important for the Muslim Ummah to show its traditional solidarity with the Afghan people in their quest for a peaceful, united, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Noting the significance of efforts towards establishing an inclusive government, the Foreign Minister warned about spoilers within and outside Afghanistan who wanted to take advantage of the situation in the country.

The Foreign Minister highlighted the role played by Pakistan in facilitating the evacuation and relocation of personnel of diplomatic missions, international organizations, media and others from Afghanistan.

The Foreign Minister expressed the hope that the talks in Kabul would succeed, leading to an inclusive and participatory government that would bring lasting peace, progress and prosperity to Afghanistan.

The OIC Secretary General apprised the Foreign Minister of the extra-ordinary meeting of the OIC Executive Meeting that has been convened in Jeddah at the level of Ambassadors/Permanent Representatives tomorrow, 22 August 2021, to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.