RAWALPINDI: United States Special Representative for Afghan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad and Commander Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan General Austin Scott Miller called on Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and discussed overall regional situation including Afghan refugees issue and Afghan reconciliation process.  

The army chief emphasized that amidst Covid-19 situation, we should not lose track of hard earned achievements for the Afghan peace process and peace and stability in the region.

He also updated them on the Pakistan government’s efforts for peace and Prime Minister Imran Khan’s call for international community to help alleviate the issues confronting developing world in present circumstances.

Also Read: Row between Afghan govt, Taliban continues over release of prisoners

Earlier the following month, at least 100 Taliban prisoners were released by the Afghan government as part of peace deal signed between the United States and the Taliban to end nearly two decades of war in Afghanistan.

Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid had said it was the first step towards ultimate exchange of 6,000 prisoners held by the Afghan government and the Taliban.

Earlier, a three-member Taliban team had negotiated the prisoner exchange process with Afghan officials in Kabul on Mar 31.

Earlier, the prisoners swap between the Afghan government and the Taliban, which was planned to take place on Mar 31, had been postponed as no Taliban delegation arrived in Kabul.

Under the Doha deal, 5,000 Taliban and 1,000 Afghan security personnel should be exchanged to facilitate direct talks between the two sides for a solution to the country’s prolonged conflict.