Pakistan nominates new envoy to Afghanistan
Pakistan on Monday nominates its new ambassador to Afghanistan as direct negotiations between Taliban and Kabul aiming to end nearly two decades of war are set to begin. Mansoor Ahmad Khan_ a veteran diplomat_ called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the capital Islamabad before leaving for Kabul_ a statement by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said. Qureshi_ it said_ hoped the appointment of an experienced and professional diplomat like Khan would help improve bilateral ties. Khan_ who had been serving as Islamabad s Permanent Representative to UN and other international organizations based in Austria since July 2018_ is assuming the office at a time when the Afghan peace process has entered a crucial phase. Pakistan and Afghanistan have had strained ties for years. Kabul has long accused Islamabad of providing safe haven to Taliban militants who launch attacks against international and Afghan forces. Pakistan has denied those allegations. Islamabad's influence over the Taliban is viewed as crucial to court the warring militia. In December 2018_ Pakistan arranged rare direct talks between Washington and the Taliban_ which led to a peace deal this February. Under the agreement_ the US committed to withdraw all foreign forces from Afghanistan by July 2021. In return_ the insurgents pledged to prevent terrorist groups from using Afghan soil for attacks_ and promised to seek reconciliation with other Afghan groups through a dialogue process. Islamabad also facilitated the landmark first round of direct talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban in Pakistan in July 2015. -Source: Anadolu Agency
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