Imran Khan: Afghan peace to boost regional economic integration

He met Zalmay Khalilzad of Afghanistan in Islamabad

Peace in Afghanistan will open the door to economic communication in the region, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Monday.

In a meeting with the US Envoy of Afghanistan's Ambassador to Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad, he discussed the growing violence and political instability in Afghanistan.

"This is not what Pakistan wants and it will lead to challenges regarding the safety and migration of refugees."

The Prime Minister praised the government's "constructive" efforts for peace, inclusiveness, and political reconciliation in Afghanistan.

"There is no military solution to the Afghanistan crisis," the prime minister said, adding that coercion by the government would not lead to a decision.

The only negotiated settlement that will bring lasting peace and stability to Afghanistan.

The prime minister emphasized that the Western border was a "safe and secure place" for the country. "Pakistan would like to remain united with the US and other relevant countries in peace efforts."

He added that it was important for Afghanistan's neighbors and regional countries to work together more effectively to achieve lasting political peace in a waterless country.

Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad arrived in Islamabad for a one-day trip on Monday.