The Ambassador of Pakistan to the Kingdom of Morocco, Mr Hamid Asghar Khan has briefed African envoys, academics, and ladies and gentlemen of the press on Pakistan’s perspective and contributions with respect to the unfolding situation in Afghanistan.

It was the fourth in a series of presentations made by the Ambassador as a part of the Embassy’s pro-active outreach to key interlocutors and opinion-makers. During the presentations, the Ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s role as a four-decade-long host for up to 4 million Afghan refugees spread over 54 refugee camps. The violent spillover, adverse impact on society due to influx of weapons and drugs and wanton acts of brutal terrorism in Pakistan that had their origins on Afghan soil and the loss of life and prosperity were also dilated upon.

The Ambassador explained in detail Pak contribution and facilitation of the evacuation of diplomats, media aid workers etc. which has been widely appreciated Ambassador Khan noted that Pakistan’s and Prime Minister Imran Khan’s oft repeated stance that there was no military solution to the Afghan situation stood fully vindicated and the reasons for the collapse of the Ghani regime such as corruption, non-inclusion of the Taliban and malfeasance were explained in detail by President Biden himself.

The Ambassador informed interlocutors that Pakistan was engaging with key neighbours and international partners to foster mutual understanding to enable the early formulation of an inclusive Afghan Government. Stability was essentially required to eliminate the chances of terror and extremist groups gaining space.

This was a common goal for all mankind. Afghanistan would need international humanitarian, medical and food assistance in the weeks and months ahead, and it was important for the Taliban to address key international concerns. Similarly, Pakistan hoped that the international community would not abandon the Afghan people, as in the past, rather would assist the incoming government with the pursuit of peace and development on the path to prosperity. Pakistan as a responsible member of the international community and the most affected neighbour would continue to play a positive role in good faith so that effective communication and understanding may be forged to deal positively with this evolving situation.

Among others, envoys from Russia, China, Turkey, Australia, Canada, Austria, South Africa, Norway, Czech Republic, Sweden, Indonesia, Qatar, Brunei, Nigeria, Thailand, Philippines, South Korea and Japan are among the 150 plus people to have been briefed at the Pakistan Chancery in Rabat since the fall of the Ghani government two weeks ago.