WASHINGTON: In an effort to defuse the diplomatic row between Afghanistan and Pakistan, the United States has reminded both that long-term relations between them are vital for regional peace.

At a Monday afternoon news briefing, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price also underlined Pakistan’s key role in the Afghan peace process. “What I would say is... that Afghanistan’s neighbours do have a role to play,” said Mr Price when asked to comment on the current diplomatic row between Islamabad and Kabul that began with alleged abduction of the Afghan ambassador’s daughter in Islamabad.

“I would add that tangible and material support for the Afghanistan peace process — it’s vital for its ultimate success, as are the longer-term relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan,” he added.

“We certainly do hope to see Afghanistan’s neighbours play a constructive, responsible role in bringing about a just and durable solution here. And we understand the crucial role that Pakistan has the potential to play in this regard as well,” he said.

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2021

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...