Delegation of US Senators meets Sartaj, highlight Pakistan's regional importance

Published July 2, 2017
The delegation of US Senators meets with Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Sunday. ─ DawnNews
The delegation of US Senators meets with Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Sunday. ─ DawnNews

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Sunday met with a delegation of American Senators in Islamabad.

The delegation is headed by Senator John McCain and included senators Lindsey Graham, Sheldon Whitehouse, Elizabeth Warren and David Perdue.

Deputy Chief of Mission of US Embassy Jonathan Pratt was also present at the meeting where the two sides discussed Pak-US ties, matters of regional importance, peace in Afghanistan and the US' role in the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG).

Sartaj Aziz (L) greets Senator John McCain. ─ DawnNews.
Sartaj Aziz (L) greets Senator John McCain. ─ DawnNews.

Speaking on the occasion, Senator McCain asserted that there was no change in the US position on Kashmir. "The United States will continue its existing policy on Kashmir," he said.

Stressing the importance of Pakistan in regional stability, McCain added, "Pakistan's role is important for peace and stability in Afghanistan."

"Peace and prosperity in Afghanistan are not possible without Pakistan's help."

Meeting with COAS

The delegation called upon Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa on Sunday, an Inter-Services Public Relation (ISPR) press release stated.

During their meeting, the delegation was briefed about the security situation in Afghanistan. The delegation was briefed how Pakistan has positively contributed towards peace and stability in the region, the press release stated.

Gen Bajwa thanked the senators for their visit and efforts in forging mutual understanding for the geopolitical challenges ahead. The COAS also stressed that Pakistan had done its best despite the constraints would continue to contribute towards peace and stability.

Senator McCain appreciated and acknowledged Pakistan Army's contributions and sacrifices in the War on terror. The senator also agreed on the importance of Pak-Afghan security cooperation and coordination.

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