China calls for Afghanistan reconciliation roadmap acceptable to all

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday called for concerted efforts to agree upon a reconciliation roadmap acceptable to all Afghan parties, the Global Times reported.

The Afghan government and all political parties should map out a reasonable reconciliation program, the minister said during a joint press briefing following talks with visiting Afghan Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani.

Pakistan could play a positive and special role. Stakeholders, including the United States, should take necessary measures to support the peace process, he added.

Referring to China as a "trust-worthy and reliable partner" of the Afghan people, Wang reiterated that China backs an "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned" reconciliation process and spoke highly of the resumption of peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban.

"China supports all initiatives and measures that are conducive for the reconciliation and resumption of peace talks. This also accords with China's security interests," Wang said .

He added that China will continue to support, mediate and provide favorable conditions for the peace talks. China will also improve communication with Russia, Iran and India to support the peace process.

The two foreign ministers also discussed the development of China-Afghanistan relations in the meeting.

Wang said China was ready to strengthen cooperation, especially in development and security, to promote the strategic partnership of cooperation.

Calling China a close friend of Afghanistan, Rabbani thanked China for its "important and constructive role" in the peace and reconstruction process.

He said his nation was willing to join the Belt and Road initiative to promote regional intercommunication and common prosperity.

Both countries attach great importance to the official visit. This is Rabbani’s first trip as Afghan foreign minister and the first high-level visit between China and Afghanistan this year.

Last year, the two countries celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties and their Year of Friendly Cooperation.

Source: MENA