Web desk: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has confirmed that the ongoing negotiation process between Pakistan and Afghanistan has come to a halt. That is with no immediate prospects for further rounds.
He said the first two rounds of talks were conducted in a positive atmosphere, but progress has now completely stalled. And the reconciliation process between the two countries has ended for the time being.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has confirmed that the ongoing negotiation process between Pakistan and Afghanistan has failed and the process of reconciliation between the two countries has ended for the time being.
He said that the first two rounds of negotiations were held in a positive atmosphere and there was hope that further progress would be made, but now the negotiations have completely stalled.
No Plan for Next Round: Khawaja Asif
Speaking to a private TV, the Defence Minister said that there is no plan or hope for a third or fourth round.
Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan, Turkey and Qatar played the role of sincere mediators in these negotiations, and Pakistan is grateful to them for their sincere efforts for a peaceful resolution of the issue.
He said that the Afghan delegation was making verbal assurances but was not ready to accept any point in writing. Khawaja Asif said that negotiations are always carried out on the basis of written principles and agreed documents. No progress is possible on mere verbal promises.
The Defence Minister further said that Pakistan had made strenuous efforts to build trust with the Afghan parties in the past as well, but the promises made repeatedly were not implemented.
He clarified that in the current circumstances, the negotiation process has ended, and there is no expectation of any new or alternative round in the near future.
Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan is committed to peace, stability and regional cooperation; however, such negotiations that do not include written assurances and practical steps cannot yield results.
