German Defence Minister Dr Thomas de Maiziere on Tuesday said Pakistan’s role in the post-withdrawal of ISAF/NATO and USA forces from Afghanistan after 2014 was very important for the security and stability of Afghanistan and indeed of the region.
He expressed these views in a meeting with Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani at the Prime Minister’s House.
During the meeting, both leaders exchanged views on defence cooperation and military collaboration, war on terror and regional and international issues.
The prime minister referred to the recent visit of the Afghan President in which he appealed to the prime minister of Pakistan to ask all the factions of Taliban to cooperate in the reconciliation and peace process. He said that Pakistan obliged by issuing the statement.
He said Pakistan was committed to support the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process in Afghanistan because Pakistan wanted to see brotherly neighbour as an independent, peaceful and prosperous country because it is in the best interest of Pakistan.
Gilani said Pakistan had suffered heavy losses both in terms of lives and the economy as a result of war on terror. “The country also suffered more causalities than all the coalition partners put together. About 35000 civilian people including 5000 brave soldiers of Pakistan embraced martyrdom,” he said.
The prime minister said political solution was the only durable solution because it carried the sanction and support of the people and their ownership, which offers the best guarantee for the longevity of peace.
He said Pakistan attached great importance to its relations with the United States and the new rules of engagement with the approval of the parliament would be formulated soon which would be based on clear understanding.
Gilani said that Pakistan was firmly committed to fight and eradicate terrorism in all its form and manifestations.
The German defence minister expressed his satisfaction over the democratic process in the country, adding that the leadership of the prime minister played a key role in strengthening the institutions.
He appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in improving the relations with its neighbouring countries. He reiterated that Germany would play role in Afghanistan beyond 2014.
Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar and senior officials of the relevant ministries were also present on the occasion.
