Pakistani FM, U.S. deputy secretary of state discuss Afghan situation, bilateral ties

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi (R) meets with visiting U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Oct. 8, 2021. Qureshi and Sherman discussed Afghan affairs and bilateral ties during their meeting, the Foreign Ministry of Pakistan said. (Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Handout via Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, Oct. 8 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met on Friday with visiting U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, discussing Afghan affairs and bilateral ties, the Foreign Ministry of Pakistan said.

Regarding the situation in Afghanistan, Qureshi stressed that "the current situation required positive engagement of the international community, urgent provision of humanitarian assistance, release of Afghan financial resources, and measures to help build a sustainable economy to alleviate the sufferings of the Afghan people," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

He noted that an inclusive and broad-based political structure reflecting the ethnic diversity of Afghan society was essential for Afghanistan's stability and progress, according to the statement.

In the context of Pakistan-U.S. bilateral relations, Qureshi underlined his country's commitment to forging a broad-based, long-term and sustainable relationship anchored in economic cooperation, regional connectivity and peace in the region.

A regular and structured dialogue process between the two countries is vital for promoting common interests and advancing shared regional objectives, he said.

During the meeting, Sherman appreciated Pakistan's support for the evacuation of U.S. citizens and others from Afghanistan, and its continued efforts for peace in the region, the foreign ministry said.

After concluding her India tour, Sherman arrived in Pakistan on Thursday for a two-day visit. Enditem