Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf Thursday said long term peace in Afghanistan was only possible through an intra-Afghan political settlement that includes all Afghan stakeholders.

Talking to the leaders of leading opposition coalition of Afghanistan National Front (ANF) here at the Pakistan embassy, the Prime Minister said Pakistan has friendly ties with the leadership of ANF.

During the talks, held in a cordial atmosphere, Prime Minister Ashraf was supported by Minister for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar, Advisor on Interior Rehman Malik, Minister of State for Commerce Abbas Ahmad Afridi. The leaders of the ANF comprised Ahmad Zia Masood, Ustad Mohammad Mohaqiq and Faizullah Zaki.

Prime Minister Ashraf said Pakistan attaches great importance to its friendly relations with all Afghan ethnic groups and leaders. He said Pakistan would like these strong bonds to further strengthen.

“We want to work closely with Tajik, Hazara and Uzbek leaders to strengthen our relations with these communities for stability in Afghanistan,” Prime Minister Ashraf said.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the role of ANF in Afghanistan and its efforts for long term stability and progress of their country. APP