The U.S. Secretary of State discussed a number of matters of importance for the two sides
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi held a telephonic conversation with the U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in the first formal contract with the Biden Administration. The two discussed a number of matters of mutual interest including the Daniel Pearl case.
Qureshi reiterated Pakistan’s stance of forging the economic partnership, building a peaceful neighborhood, and enhancing regional connectivity. He also impressed upon the importance of bringing a peaceful resolution to the Afghan conflict for both nations. Pakistan facilitated the Qatar talks between the Taliban and the U.S. Government, which lead to last year’s peace deal.
Secretary Blinken discussed the cooperation between the two countries over the years and believed both sides need to work on a number of issues. The Secretary of State acknowledged the sacrifices made by the people of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. Shah Mehmood Qureshi worked closely with the Obama Administration as well when he was the foreign minister in the Yousaf Raza Gilani’s cabinet.
The Afghan peace deal
The Biden Administration will revisit the peace deal with the Afghan Taliban. The deal was finalized in Qatar last year in February. Despite this deal and ongoing talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government, there has been lots of violence in the war-torn country.
Foreign Minister Qureshi and Secretary Blinken both understood the importance of remaining engaged and working together on the bilateral agenda and promoting common interests in the region and beyond.
Daniel Pearl Case
Secretary Blinken expressed his concerns about the recent verdict on the Daniel Pearl case which sets aside the conviction of the main accused in the case. Qureshi assured his counterpart that justice will be served in the case.