ISLAMABAD: The 34th meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on Friday emphasised that Pakistan remains committed to a peaceful, stable and sovereign Afghanistan.
Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired the high-level meeting to discuss internal security issues and situation in Afghanistan. The NSC meeting was attended by relevant Federal Cabinet members, all Services Chiefs, and heads of intelligence services.
According to a statement issued after the meeting, the Prime Minister received a detailed briefing on the evolving regional security situation, particularly the recent developments in Afghanistan and their possible impact on Pakistan.
The participants noted, with concern, the dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and emphasized the urgent need for the international community to provide assistance to avert a humanitarian crisis.
“The importance of international coordination on constructive political and economic engagement with the interim government in Afghanistan was also highlighted,” the statement added.
During the meeting, the premier expressed satisfaction on Pakistan’s support to the international evacuation effort from Afghanistan and noted that the entire world had recognized Pakistan’s positive contribution.
Committee members emphasized that the evolving situation in the region was extremely complex and that any instability in Afghanistan could have severe implications for Pakistan. Agreeing with this view, the premier stressed the need for a coordinated policy effort.
PM Imran directed the establishment of a dedicated cell to synergize various streams of efforts on Afghanistan across the government, including international coordination for humanitarian assistance and effective border management to prevent any negative spillover into Pakistan.
