Safety, security, stability & protection of rights of all Afghans were
critically important: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD, (MANEND NEWS): Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah
Mahmood Qureshi received telephone call from Dominic Raab,
Secretary for Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Affairs and First
Secretary of State of the United Kingdom.
Views were exchanged on the latest developments in Afghanistan.
Noting that Pakistan was closely following the evolving situation, the
Foreign Minister strongly condemned the terrorist attack near the
Kabul Airport in which so many precious lives were lost. The Foreign
Minister underscored that safety, security, stability and protection of
the rights of all Afghans were critically important. The Foreign Minister
added that an inclusive political settlement was the best way forward.
Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, the Foreign
Minister stated that Pakistan was in touch with regional and
international partners. In this context, he emphasized the vital
importance of peaceful and stable Afghanistan for Pakistan and the
region.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi added that it was essential for the world
community to stay engaged with Afghanistan to stabilize the situation
and help the Afghan people economically and to continue providing
humanitarian assistance. The Foreign Minister also apprised his
counterpart about his visit to four neighbouring countries of
Afghanistan for a coordinated approach.
The Foreign Minister highlighted Pakistan’s efforts in facilitating
evacuation of diplomatic personnel and staff of international
organizations and others, including British nationals, and assured

Pakistan’s continued support in this context. In the bilateral context,
the Foreign Minister shared concerns over the retention of Pakistan on
the ‘Red List’ for travel ban. He noted that the Covid-19 situation in
Pakistan has improved and urged the UK government to reconsider its
decision.
The UK Foreign Secretary shared UK’s perspective on the
developments in Afghanistan and conveyed thanks for Pakistan’s
support and facilitation in the evacuation efforts. The two Ministers
agreed to remain in close contact.