Pakistan, US agree to continue work for Afghan peace

Pakistan and the United States Thursday reaffirmed their desire to work closely for consolidation of bilateral relations and partnership in all spheres of cooperation including peace and stability in the region, the Foreign Ministry said.. The U.S. special envoy for Pakistan and Afghanistan James F. Dobbins called on Foreign Secretary Jalil Abbas Jilani in Islamabad and discussed bilateral relations and regional situation including latest developments in Afghanistan, the Foreign Ministry said. They also agreed to work for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. The two sides exchanged views on several actions to be taken in the realm of bilateral cooperation. The foreign secretary also briefed the new U.S. special representative about the steps taken by Pakistan for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan and reiterated Pakistan's commitment to remain positively engaged in supporting the peace process. This is the first visit to Pakistan by James F. Dobbins after his appointment as AfPak envoy this year. The U.S. envoy has also visited Afghanistan and held talks with the leaders on security issues. The visit came at a time of tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan over cross-border firing and the alleged constructions by Pakistani forces on the Afghan side of the border.