ISLAMABAD Aug. 29 (TNS): Chinese special envoy on Afghanistan Deng Xijun called on Pakistan’s foreign secretary Tehmina Janjua in the capital Islamabad on Monday and discussed efforts for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan.
China reaffirmed its “continuing and firm” support for Pakistan’s efforts to achieve peace and stability in neighboring Afghanistan — a move seen as a rejection of US President Donald Trump’s recent allegations that Islamabad is harboring terrorists.
Trump had accused Pakistan of harboring “agents of chaos” and providing safe havens for militant groups waging an insurgency against the U.S.-backed government in Kabul.
Pakistani officials responded by saying the U.S. should not make Pakistan a “scapegoat” and accused the American military of failing to eliminate militant sanctuaries inside Afghanistan.
Chinese special envoy emphasized there was no military solution to the conflict. He underlined the need for a politically negotiated settlement through an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process.
Deng Xijun has reaffirmed China’s continuing and firm support to Pakistan’s commitment and efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan. He lauded Pakistan’s contribution and sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism.
“Pakistan’s efforts towards eliminating the scourge of terrorism should be fully recognized by the international community,” Xijun said.
