Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun has made a public appearance after a period of absence, coinciding with President Xi Jinping's call for enhanced military stability. This reappearance underscores the importance of strengthening China’s defense capabilities amidst growing regional and global tensions.

Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun Reappears as Xi Emphasizes Military Stability

<p>In a compelling ground report titled "In Indian Kashmir, a history woven of thread and water," Bérénice Debras from Le Figaro provides a rare and optimistic perspective on Kashmir, highlighting the region's gradual emergence as a tourist destination after years of conflict. The magazine of the second-largest national newspaper in France, Le Figaro, shares insights into the changing dynamics of Srinagar and the Dal Lake, emphasising the positive signs of security and stability.</p>

<p>Debras writes, "Forgotten paradise, Srinagar is timidly opening up to foreign travelers after decades of conflict. In Kashmir, in the foothills of the Himalayas, the gentle landscapes invite peace." This observation encapsulates the hopeful transition the region is undergoing, marking a departure from its tumultuous past.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-repoens-ancient-monument-where-alexander-the-great-became-king-677145">Greece repoens ancient monument where Alexander the Great became king</a></p>

<p>The article underscores the symbolic importance of a G20 meeting on tourism held in Srinagar last May, proclaiming a return to a certain level of security.</p>

<p>Emphasising the significant strides Kashmir has taken towards normalcy, Debras further writes, "Stability is slowly re-establishing itself. It was about time,"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Le Figaro also sheds light on the cultural ties between Kashmir and France, specifically through the production of shawls. Debras explains, "In the Kashmir Valley, shawls have been made since time immemorial... In 1861, 80% of the shawls exported from Kashmir went to France, 10% to the United States, and 1% to Great Britain." This historical connection adds depth to the evolving narrative of Kashmir as it opens its doors to a global audience.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/elections-will-be-free-fair-transparent-and-credible-bangladesh-fm-momen-tells-wion-677140">Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION</a></p>

<p>The report highlights the region's iconic Mughal Gardens of Shalimar and its legendary houseboats. Elaborating&nbsp;on the evolution of these houseboats, Debras writes, "According to legend, the house-boats developed with the British, who were not allowed, as foreigners, to buy land in Kashmir – a ban lifted only recently. The first house-boats were small. They adapted to modern comforts."</p>

<p>This transformation, coupled with the return of Bollywood to the region, signifies a renewed interest in Kashmir's unique offerings.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-gets-a-major-facelift-all-decked-up-for-ram-mandir-inside-south-asia-677102">Ayodhya gets a major facelift: All decked up for Ram Mandir | Inside South Asia</a></strong></p>

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<p>The article concludes by stating that, "Srinagar wants to turn the page after decades of tragedies".</p>

<p>India removed special status for the erstwhile state in 2019 as a way to bring the region into the mainstream, particularly through enhanced connectivity. Le Figaro's positive portrayal of Kashmir serves as a departure from the conventional narrative in Western media, providing a refreshing perspective on the region's journey towards stability, security, and the reinvigoration of its tourism industry.</p>


In a compelling ground report titled "In Indian Kashmir, a history woven of thread and water," Bérénice Debras from Le Figaro provides a rare and optimistic perspective on Kashmir, highlighting the region's gradual emergence as a tourist destination after years of conflict.

In a compelling ground report titled "In Indian Kashmir, a history woven of thread and water," Bérénice Debras from Le Figaro provides a rare and optimistic perspective on Kashmir, highlighting the region's gradual emergence as a tourist destination after years of conflict. The magazine of the second-largest national newspaper in France, Le Figaro, shares insights into the changing dynamics of Srinagar and the Dal Lake, emphasising the positive signs of security and stability. Debras writes, "Forgotten paradise, Srinagar is timidly opening up to foreign travelers after decades of conflict. In Kashmir, in the foothills of the Himalayas, the gentle landscapes invite peace." This observation encapsulates the hopeful transition the region is undergoing, marking a departure from its tumultuous past. Also Read | Greece repoens ancient monument where Alexander the Great became king The article underscores the symbolic importance of a G20 meeting on tourism held in Srinagar last May, proclaiming a return to a certain level of security. Emphasising the significant strides Kashmir has taken towards normalcy, Debras further writes, "Stability is slowly re-establishing itself. It was about time," Le Figaro also sheds light on the cultural ties between Kashmir and France, specifically through the production of shawls. Debras explains, "In the Kashmir Valley, shawls have been made since time immemorial... In 1861, 80% of the shawls exported from Kashmir went to France, 10% to the United States, and 1% to Great Britain." This historical connection adds depth to the evolving narrative of Kashmir as it opens its doors to a global audience. Also Read | Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION The report highlights the region's iconic Mughal Gardens of Shalimar and its legendary houseboats. Elaborating on the evolution of these houseboats, Debras writes, "According to legend, the house-boats developed with the British, who were not allowed, as foreigners, to buy land in Kashmir – a ban lifted only recently. The first house-boats were small. They adapted to modern comforts." This transformation, coupled with the return of Bollywood to the region, signifies a renewed interest in Kashmir's unique offerings. Watch | Ayodhya gets a major facelift: All decked up for Ram Mandir | Inside South Asia × The article concludes by stating that, "Srinagar wants to turn the page after decades of tragedies". India removed special status for the erstwhile state in 2019 as a way to bring the region into the mainstream, particularly through enhanced connectivity. Le Figaro's positive portrayal of Kashmir serves as a departure from the conventional narrative in Western media, providing a refreshing perspective on the region's journey towards stability, security, and the reinvigoration of its tourism industry.

France's Le Figaro highlights security, stability, and tourism resurgence in Kashmir

<p>India and France have announced a series of agreements to strengthen ties and address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, the two nations, sharing a common vision for the region, have adopted a new Indo-Pacific Roadmap, aiming to ensure stability, sustainable development, and free access to global commons.</p>

<p>Building upon the Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, adopted in 2018, India and France with this new roadmap are committed to working together to secure their economic and security interests. It includes advancing "the rule of international law" and building a "balanced and stable order" in the region, with "respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity," MEA said in a statement. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-prominent-individuals-in-paris-hold-discussions-on-yoga-science-skill-development-and-more-615736">PM Modi meets prominent individuals in Paris; hold discussions on yoga, science, skill development, and more</a></p>

<p>Highlighting the importance of the Pacific, both countries have pledged to extend their cooperation with the involvement of the French territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia. The French overseas territories in the Indian and Pacific Oceans will play a crucial role in the Indo-Pacific partnership between India and France, the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Promoting UN Security Council reform</strong></h2>

<p>India and France also joined hands in advocating for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure better representation and inclusivity. The two nations support the credentials of the G4 countries, including India, to become new permanent members of the Security Council. Additionally, both nations also urged the need for improved representation from Africa among the council's permanent members.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Science, technology, and academic cooperation</strong></h2>

<p>Recognising the pivotal role of technology in addressing the challenges of the 21st century, India and France have agreed to deepen their cooperation in the fields of science, technological innovation, and academic research. As leading startup and innovation ecosystems in their respective regions, both nations aim to promote research partnerships and essential technologies that contribute to their countries' self-reliance.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-in-france-india-flags-cross-border-terrorism-repeats-call-for-dialogue-to-end-ukraine-war-615740">Modi in France: India flags cross-border terrorism, repeats call for dialogue to end Ukraine war</a></p>

<p>In the field of health and medicine, India and France have signed a Letter of Intent for Cooperation, which lays the foundation for collaboration in various areas, including digital health, AI for healthcare, medical waste treatment technology, biotechnology, and combating antimicrobial resistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both countries will also focus on health emergency prevention, preparedness, and response, as well as strengthen cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector and digital health technologies.</p>

<h2><strong>Enhancing cybersecurity&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The growing strategic importance of cyberspace in the bilateral relationship between India and France was reaffirmed. Both nations acknowledged the significance of bilateral cyber dialogues and commit to working closely on mutual areas of interest. India and France are dedicated to jointly promoting a peaceful, secure, and open cyberspace, aligning with the Indo-French Roadmap on Cybersecurity and Digital Technology.</p>

<h2><strong>Collaborating for a sustainable future</strong></h2>

<p>India and France committed themselves to cooperating closely in the transition toward a low-carbon economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To meet the increasing energy demand driven by India's urbanisation and industrialisation while addressing energy security concerns, the two countries aim to increase their share of clean energy sources. Both nations share the conviction that sustainable solutions in combating climate change include the use of nuclear energy.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine continues to demand more weapons and NATO membership</strong></p>

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<p>Moreover, India and France are strengthening their collaboration on promoting a circular economy and integrated waste management in cities. This collaboration focuses on enhancing waste collection and transportation, developing waste-to-wealth solutions, and improving liquid and solid waste management practices.</p>

<h2><strong>Promoting people-to-people ties</strong></h2>

<p>India and France laid emphasis on the importance of people-to-people exchanges and economic ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Partnership Agreement on Migration and Mobility, which came into force in 2021, facilitates the mobility of students, graduates, academics, researchers, professionals, and skilled workers between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both countries aim to enhance tourist flows and simplify visa issuance procedures for the private sector and business community. They have also granted visa exemption for short stays to official passport holders and will assess the effectiveness of this exemption in 2026.&nbsp;Additionally, efforts will be made to promote mutual recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, fostering skilled mobility between India and France.</p>

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India and France have announced a series of agreements to strengthen ties and address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, the two nations, sharing a common vision for the region, have adopted a new Indo-Pacific Roadmap, aiming to ensure stability, sustainable development, and free access to global commons.

India and France have announced a series of agreements to strengthen ties and address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, the two nations, sharing a common vision for the region, have adopted a new Indo-Pacific Roadmap, aiming to ensure stability, sustainable development, and free access to global commons. Building upon the Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, adopted in 2018, India and France with this new roadmap are committed to working together to secure their economic and security interests. It includes advancing "the rule of international law" and building a "balanced and stable order" in the region, with "respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity," MEA said in a statement. Also Read | PM Modi meets prominent individuals in Paris; hold discussions on yoga, science, skill development, and more Highlighting the importance of the Pacific, both countries have pledged to extend their cooperation with the involvement of the French territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia. The French overseas territories in the Indian and Pacific Oceans will play a crucial role in the Indo-Pacific partnership between India and France, the statement read. Promoting UN Security Council reform India and France also joined hands in advocating for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure better representation and inclusivity. The two nations support the credentials of the G4 countries, including India, to become new permanent members of the Security Council. Additionally, both nations also urged the need for improved representation from Africa among the council's permanent members. Science, technology, and academic cooperation Recognising the pivotal role of technology in addressing the challenges of the 21st century, India and France have agreed to deepen their cooperation in the fields of science, technological innovation, and academic research. As leading startup and innovation ecosystems in their respective regions, both nations aim to promote research partnerships and essential technologies that contribute to their countries' self-reliance. Also Read | Modi in France: India flags cross-border terrorism, repeats call for dialogue to end Ukraine war In the field of health and medicine, India and France have signed a Letter of Intent for Cooperation, which lays the foundation for collaboration in various areas, including digital health, AI for healthcare, medical waste treatment technology, biotechnology, and combating antimicrobial resistance. Both countries will also focus on health emergency prevention, preparedness, and response, as well as strengthen cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector and digital health technologies. Enhancing cybersecurity The growing strategic importance of cyberspace in the bilateral relationship between India and France was reaffirmed. Both nations acknowledged the significance of bilateral cyber dialogues and commit to working closely on mutual areas of interest. India and France are dedicated to jointly promoting a peaceful, secure, and open cyberspace, aligning with the Indo-French Roadmap on Cybersecurity and Digital Technology. Collaborating for a sustainable future India and France committed themselves to cooperating closely in the transition toward a low-carbon economy. To meet the increasing energy demand driven by India's urbanisation and industrialisation while addressing energy security concerns, the two countries aim to increase their share of clean energy sources. Both nations share the conviction that sustainable solutions in combating climate change include the use of nuclear energy. Watch | Ukraine continues to demand more weapons and NATO membership × Moreover, India and France are strengthening their collaboration on promoting a circular economy and integrated waste management in cities. This collaboration focuses on enhancing waste collection and transportation, developing waste-to-wealth solutions, and improving liquid and solid waste management practices. Promoting people-to-people ties India and France laid emphasis on the importance of people-to-people exchanges and economic ties. The Partnership Agreement on Migration and Mobility, which came into force in 2021, facilitates the mobility of students, graduates, academics, researchers, professionals, and skilled workers between the two nations. Both countries aim to enhance tourist flows and simplify visa issuance procedures for the private sector and business community. They have also granted visa exemption for short stays to official passport holders and will assess the effectiveness of this exemption in 2026. Additionally, efforts will be made to promote mutual recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, fostering skilled mobility between India and France. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India, France draw up roadmap for balanced and stable order in Asia-Pacific region

<p>The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China.</p>

<p>Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks after which they released a joint statement in which both countries promised to continue working together for improving their ties.</p>

<p>"The two sides emphasised the importance of following up on the implementation of the Beijing Agreement and its activation in a way that expands mutual trust and the fields of cooperation and helps create security, stability and prosperity in the region," the statement read.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</a></p>

<p>The two ministers agreed to reopen their diplomatic missions and proceed with taking the necessary measures to open embassies in Riyadh and Tehran, and their general consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad.&nbsp;The leaders also decided to continue co-ordination between the technical teams on both sides to discuss ways to enhance co-operation&nbsp;by including the resumption of flights, mutual visits by official delegations and private sector, and facilitating the granting of visas to citizens, including Umrah visas.<br />
<br />
In March, Tehran and Riyadh had announced an agreement, brokered by Beijing, to restore their relations which had remained severed for seven years, when Saudi diplomatic missions were attacked by protesters in Iran.</p>

<p>In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry said that the two sides “negotiated and exchanged opinions with the emphasis on the official resumption of bilateral relations and the executive steps towards the reopening of the embassies and consulates of the two countries”.</p>

<p>The footage of leaders shaking hands and chatting with smiling faces in front of Saudi and Iranian flags was aired by the Saudi state TV channel Al Ekhbariya.</p>

<p>In state broadcaster CCTV's readout, Beijing hailed "the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years" and "active mediation" of China in the diplomacy.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | In China, Saudi &amp; Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press briefing, said, "China will work with Middle Eastern countries to implement global security initiatives, global development initiatives and global civilisation initiatives to promote security, stability, development, prosperity, tolerance and harmony.”</p>

<p>As per last month's agreement, the two countries will reopen their missions and embassies within two months and implement economic co-operation and security deals which have signed more than 20 years ago.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China.

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks after which they released a joint statement in which both countries promised to continue working together for improving their ties. "The two sides emphasised the importance of following up on the implementation of the Beijing Agreement and its activation in a way that expands mutual trust and the fields of cooperation and helps create security, stability and prosperity in the region," the statement read. ALSO READ | Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West The two ministers agreed to reopen their diplomatic missions and proceed with taking the necessary measures to open embassies in Riyadh and Tehran, and their general consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad. The leaders also decided to continue co-ordination between the technical teams on both sides to discuss ways to enhance co-operation by including the resumption of flights, mutual visits by official delegations and private sector, and facilitating the granting of visas to citizens, including Umrah visas. In March, Tehran and Riyadh had announced an agreement, brokered by Beijing, to restore their relations which had remained severed for seven years, when Saudi diplomatic missions were attacked by protesters in Iran. In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry said that the two sides “negotiated and exchanged opinions with the emphasis on the official resumption of bilateral relations and the executive steps towards the reopening of the embassies and consulates of the two countries”. The footage of leaders shaking hands and chatting with smiling faces in front of Saudi and Iranian flags was aired by the Saudi state TV channel Al Ekhbariya. In state broadcaster CCTV's readout, Beijing hailed "the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years" and "active mediation" of China in the diplomacy. WATCH | In China, Saudi & Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press briefing, said, "China will work with Middle Eastern countries to implement global security initiatives, global development initiatives and global civilisation initiatives to promote security, stability, development, prosperity, tolerance and harmony.” As per last month's agreement, the two countries will reopen their missions and embassies within two months and implement economic co-operation and security deals which have signed more than 20 years ago. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran, Saudi Arabia agree to resume flights, bilateral visits; work for ‘security, stability’ in Middle East

<p>India and Australia have called for "broad-based and inclusive government" in Afghanistan, which is "necessary" for "long term peace and stability" of the country, a point in the joint statement released after the first 2+2 foreign and defence minister dialogue on Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Peter Dutton held the 2+2 dialogue in New Delhi in which a range of issues like Indo-pacific, Afghanistan, defence ties were discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The joint statement said that the ministers "expressed deep concern about the situation in Afghanistan" and called on the "Taliban to guarantee safe passage for foreign nationals and Afghans wanting to leave the country". &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India-Australia 2+2 dialogue underway, focus on expanding strategic ties</strong></p>

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<p>Afghanistan saw Taliban takeover in August, after the fall of national capital Kabul. What followed has been heartbreaking visuals of many Afghans trying to leave the country fearing Taliban reprisal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the joint statement, they "reiterated calls on those in positions of power and authority" across Afghanistan to "adhere to counterterrorism commitments and human rights, in accordance with" United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The resolution was passed under the Indian chairmanship of the council on August 30 and is a key document when it comes to situation in Afghanistan and Taliban commitments on counter terror. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministers also agreed to "remain alert to the broader repercussions of the developments in Afghanistan for the ongoing terrorist threats around the world, and in our region." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-undertaking-maintenance-of-mauritius-coast-guards-patrol-vessel-412614" hreflang="en">India undertaking maintenance of Mauritius Coast Guard’s patrol vessel</a></strong></p>

<p>The worry over Afghanistan becoming a safe haven for international terror groups have been a concern globally. India has raised it publicly at multilateral forum at UN and privately with many of its allies, especially with regards to Pakistan-based international terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed finding a safe haven.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the joint statement, ministers "noted reports of a rapid roll-back on women and girls’ rights and access to services and public spaces, as well as targeted violence against women’s rights defenders", and called on for "protection of rights of women and children and their full participation in public life". &nbsp;</p>

<p>Past few weeks have seen restrictions being imposed on women, especially ability to work. Kabul saw massive protest, many of the participants were women, who were beaten up by Taliban, according to videos, which emerged on social media.&nbsp;</p>


India and Australia have called for "broad-based and inclusive government" in Afghanistan, which is "necessary" for "long term peace and stability" of the country, a point in the joint statement released after the first 2+2 foreign and defence minister dialogue on Saturday.

India and Australia have called for "broad-based and inclusive government" in Afghanistan, which is "necessary" for "long term peace and stability" of the country, a point in the joint statement released after the first 2+2 foreign and defence minister dialogue on Saturday. India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Peter Dutton held the 2+2 dialogue in New Delhi in which a range of issues like Indo-pacific, Afghanistan, defence ties were discussed. The joint statement said that the ministers "expressed deep concern about the situation in Afghanistan" and called on the "Taliban to guarantee safe passage for foreign nationals and Afghans wanting to leave the country". Watch: India-Australia 2+2 dialogue underway, focus on expanding strategic ties × Afghanistan saw Taliban takeover in August, after the fall of national capital Kabul. What followed has been heartbreaking visuals of many Afghans trying to leave the country fearing Taliban reprisal. In the joint statement, they "reiterated calls on those in positions of power and authority" across Afghanistan to "adhere to counterterrorism commitments and human rights, in accordance with" United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593. The resolution was passed under the Indian chairmanship of the council on August 30 and is a key document when it comes to situation in Afghanistan and Taliban commitments on counter terror. Ministers also agreed to "remain alert to the broader repercussions of the developments in Afghanistan for the ongoing terrorist threats around the world, and in our region." Also Read: India undertaking maintenance of Mauritius Coast Guard’s patrol vessel The worry over Afghanistan becoming a safe haven for international terror groups have been a concern globally. India has raised it publicly at multilateral forum at UN and privately with many of its allies, especially with regards to Pakistan-based international terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed finding a safe haven. In the joint statement, ministers "noted reports of a rapid roll-back on women and girls’ rights and access to services and public spaces, as well as targeted violence against women’s rights defenders", and called on for "protection of rights of women and children and their full participation in public life". Past few weeks have seen restrictions being imposed on women, especially ability to work. Kabul saw massive protest, many of the participants were women, who were beaten up by Taliban, according to videos, which emerged on social media.

India, Australia call for inclusive government in Afghanistan for stability

<p>Even when its government is being accused of supporting numerous terrorist groups, such as Taliban, LeT, etc, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated the country’s commitment for stability in Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prime minister made the statement in his Independence Day message on Saturday. Khan also said, the country had rendered immense sacrifices and paid a heavy price for instability on its Western border. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have consistently stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Pakistan will continue to support a negotiated political settlement for durable peace and stability in Afghanistan,” PM added. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In the message, he said, “We want peace within and peace without, to pursue our socio-economic agenda. Naya Pakistan has shifted its focus from geo-politics to geo-economics, with the well-being and welfare of our people as the topmost priority.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, had exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was speaking at the session of UNSC organised under India's presidency of the top UN body. The session was held days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar had called India's external Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Afghan envoy Isaczai highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had publicly slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


Even when its government is being accused of supporting numerous terrorist groups, such as Taliban, LeT, etc, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated the country’s commitment for stability in Afghanistan.

Even when its government is being accused of supporting numerous terrorist groups, such as Taliban, LeT, etc, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated the country’s commitment for stability in Afghanistan. The prime minister made the statement in his Independence Day message on Saturday. Khan also said, the country had rendered immense sacrifices and paid a heavy price for instability on its Western border. “We have consistently stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Pakistan will continue to support a negotiated political settlement for durable peace and stability in Afghanistan,” PM added. In the message, he said, “We want peace within and peace without, to pursue our socio-economic agenda. Naya Pakistan has shifted its focus from geo-politics to geo-economics, with the well-being and welfare of our people as the topmost priority.” Earlier, Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, had exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. He was speaking at the session of UNSC organised under India's presidency of the top UN body. The session was held days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar had called India's external Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. The Afghan envoy Isaczai highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available." Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had publicly slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country.

Accused of supporting Taliban, Pak PM reiterates commitment for Afghan stability

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