Pakistan, Tajikistan reiterate resolve to step up counter-terrorism cooperation

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon have reiterated their resolve to step-up bilateral counter-terrorism cooperation between the two countries.

The military's media wing said that General Bajwa called on Rahmon in Dushanbe on Monday, The Express Tribune reported.

The two discussed the security issues and pitched for dialogue in regional cooperation and support to Afghan-led and Afghan-owned initiatives.

President Rahmon also appreciated Pakistan for its efforts towards fighting against terrorism and peace.

Both countries have pledged to enhance and expand Pakistan-Tajikistan cooperation in the fields of defence and security.

Meanwhile, China's Special Envoy on Afghanistan Affairs Ambassador Deng Xijun has said there is a need for a politically-negotiated settlement through an Afghan-led Afghan-owned peace process in Afghanistan.

Xijun was called on by Pakistan Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua on Monday afternoon to discuss "regional and international efforts for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan".

The envoy said their efforts towards eliminating terrorism should be recognised by the international community.

"Ambassador Deng Xijun reaffirmed China's continuing and firm support to Pakistan's commitment and efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan," a press release issued by the Foreign Office stated.

"Emphasising that there was no military solution to the conflict, he underlined the need for a politically-negotiated settlement through an Afghan-led Afghan-owned peace process," it added.

Both countries have agreed to strengthen cooperation in "facilitating peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan as well as promoting meaningful engagement between the three neighbourly countries," the release said.

-ANI