Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad visited Islamabad from April 29 to 30 to hold discussions with Pakistani leadership on developments in the Afghan peace process. Ambassasor Khalilzad met Foreign Secretary Mahmood and other officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as Chief of Army Staff Bajwa and senior military officials.

Ambassador Khalilzad expressed his appreciation for Prime Minister Khan’s recent remarks in support of the peace process and broader vision for stability and prosperity in the region. Ambassador Khalilzad requested and received support for the need to accelerate intra-Afghan dialogue and negotiations as well as a reduction in violence, concrete steps necessary for a comprehensive settlement. Ambassador Khalilzad reiterated that an end to the war will bring long overdue peace and stability for Afghans and an independent Afghanistan that precludes it from being used by terrorists to attack the United States or any other country. In addition, peace holds particular significance for the region by facilitating regional economic integration. Ambassador Khalilzad said such integration contributes to advancing PM Khan’s vision for a development-centric transformation of Pakistan.