ISLAMABAD: United States Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson said a strong relationship between the two countries was of great importance for regional stability and in achieving a prosperous future for its citizens.

"One of the most critical ingredients for achieving regional stability and prosperity is creating a peaceful and stable future for Afghanistan,” Richard Olson said during his address to students at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) in Islamabad.

Ambassador Olson in his remarks emphasised the importance of cooperation between the US, Afghanistan, and Pakistan in order to support regional stability and prosperity.

The Ambassador spoke about the results of the Declaration of Enduring Partnership signed between the Government of Afghanistan and Nato in 2010 to provide a long-term security, economic, and political support to Afghanistan and the importance of regional efforts in its continued success.

“An increasingly stable Afghanistan that is at peace and enjoys productive relations with its neighbours will be an effective counter-weight against extremism. A stable Afghanistan is also conducive to economic development in South and Central Asia,” Olson remarked.

Ambassador Olson also highlighted that the US and Pakistan have to “set future events on a positive course and seize opportunity for a brighter future in Afghanistan”.

The US envoy encouraged Pakistan to continue its efforts in strengthening relations with Afghanistan, adding, “There is much work to be done together on important issues, such as security, trade and economic ties, reconstruction and rehabilitation, and regional cooperation.”

Olson reaffirmed the enduring US commitment to Pakistan and the region, saying, “The United States will remain engaged; we see our role in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the region as one of a sustained commitment that is in our own national security interest as well as that of the countries of the region.”

The US ambassador called upon the students at Nust to play their role in leading Pakistan towards a more stable and secure future.

“You have an opportunity now to choose a better future, and put aside the differences of the past. Pakistan is a young society, and so is Afghanistan. Young people in both countries can make the choice now to set the course for a positive and constructive direction.

“I hope you will seize this opportunity. Rest assured, the United States is committed to support you in your critical role in helping Afghanistan through this period of transition,” Olson concluded.