Pakistan, US discuss bilateral issues

Islamabad: Pakistan and the United States on Tuesday discussed bilateral issues. US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke by telephone. They exchanged views on the current situation in the region. They also discussed bilateral issues. Both sides agreed that de-escalation was important for peace and stability in South Asia. Foreign Minister Qureshi said that Pakistan-US ties were important for promoting regional peace and stability. He appreciated US role and efforts in diffusing tensions in the region. He also briefed Secretary Pompeo about efforts and progress in the implementation of Pakistan’s National Action Plan. Foreign Minister Qureshi informed Mr. Pompeo about the de-escalatory measures taken by Pakistan including the handing over of the Indian pilot. He also urged US to play its role for resumption of dialogue between Pakistan and India to find solutions to all outstanding disputes. Both leaders agreed to continue to pursue the Afghan reconciliation process. They discussed Pakistan’s facilitating role and agreed that the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad’s forthcoming visit to Islamabad would provide an opportunity to further build on the gains made so far. Foreign Minister reiterated that Intra-Afghan dialogue was an important component of the reconciliation process. Foreign Minister emphasised the need to enhance interaction at the leadership level.