LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Saad Rafique said on Saturday that Pakistan and Afghanistan must establish clear and lasting rules for coexistence, stressing that geography binds the two countries together.
Commenting on the upcoming Pakistan–Afghanistan talks in Doha, he said the dialogue was crucial to resolving recent tensions and setting a foundation for stable relations. “Permanent, clear rules for living together must be agreed upon on the principle of coexistence, because geography cannot be changed,” he said.
Rafique noted that despite recurring challenges in bilateral ties, millions of Muslims on both sides of the border share cultural and linguistic bonds that should serve as the basis for peace and cooperation.
He said Afghanistan was free to maintain friendly relations with India but cautioned that such ties should not come at the expense of Pakistan’s security.
The PML-N leader added that Pakistan must ensure Afghanistan prevents the movement of armed extremists across the border, especially given the economic and humanitarian support Pakistan continues to extend to its neighbour.
