Pakistan assures UN envoy of support in Afghan peace

Pakistan on Monday assured the visiting Special Representative of the UN Secretary General (SRSG) for Afghanistan, Jan Kubis, of its support to peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan, officials said. The UN envoy met Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Sartaj Aziz, and discussed matters related to Afghanistan and Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, the Foreign Ministry said. "The adviser underscored the importance Pakistan attached to a stable, peaceful and united Afghanistan and wished the Afghan people well during the security, political and economic transitions in 2014 and beyond," a statement said. The adviser underscored Pakistan's resolve to support the international community's efforts for stability in Afghanistan. He reaffirmed Pakistan's steadfast support for an inclusive Afghan- led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process. He also highlighted the positive developments in Pakistan- Afghanistan relations, marked by frequent high-level exchanges and growing emphasis on bilateral trade and economic agenda as well as regional cooperation. Appreciating UNAMA's efforts, the adviser stressed the importance of deeper engagement of the United Nations and the international community in the economic development and reconstruction of Afghanistan. He noted that the international community should help create conducive conditions for the early return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and their sustainable reintegration in Afghanistan. Jan Kubis recognized Pakistan's role in peace and stability in Afghanistan and the efforts to build a positive relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He also highlighted UN's supportive role in diverse sectors in Afghanistan as per UNAMA's mandate.