HPC welcomes China’s call for mediation in peace process

KABUL: Following the announcement of Beijing to set up a forum to restart the Afghan-led peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban militants, the High Peace Council (HPC) on Wednesday termed this attempt by China as fruitful for the success of peace efforts in Afghanistan.

The HPC advisor for international relation, Mohammad Ismail Qasimyar, told Azadi Radio that this decision by China is part of practical cooperation of that country with Afghanistan.

Terming China as a good friend of Pakistan, he said Beijing can help Afghanistan in ending war and ensure security in the country.

“The only way is to bring the Taliban leaders in negotiations table to talk with high ranking HPC officials or the government envoys and open the door for reconciliation. I consider this effort by China as correct which can help the peace and reconciliation process in the country,” he opined.

According to reports, China has suggested to host a session between Kabul and Islamabad officials and the Taliban representatives.

This talk was planned by Chinese officials in recent visit of Afghan president to Beijing.

It comes as President Ashraf Ghani is due to visit Islamabad in upcoming days wherein he will be focused on practical steps in the peace process.

A number of analysts term China is an impartial country in internal problems of Afghanistan, and say they are optimistic about honest cooperation of this country in Afghan-led peace process.

Basir Haqyar, an analyst in political affairs, said China wants enhanced economic ties with Afghanistan and is eager to take part in boosting up the country’s security.

“China as an impartial country can play vital role in Afghanistan’s peace process. And I am optimistic towards this issue. China has had better economic ties with Pakistan thus it can establish crucial role in eliminating insecurity and pursuing peace efforts in Afghanistan,” he added.

During past month, at least four high ranking Pakistani officials have visited Kabul and have had new promises to support the Afghan-led peace process. They have also invited President Ghani to visit Islamabad.

Afghan analysts believe that Pakistan is stuck in crisis and thus wants to come of this crisis by showing green gardens to Afghanistan. Ahmad Saeedi told a local TV channel on late Monday that Pakistan well knows how to come out of crisis in critical conditions. He said Islamabad wants to pursue its long term political goals by non-stop sending of its officials to Kabul and by inviting high ranking Afghan officials to visit Islamabad.