NEW YORK: Defence Minister Khwaja Muhammad Asif stated that Pakistan is dedicated to enhancing trade, commerce, and investment in Afghanistan.

He was speaking at the third meeting of the Quadripartite Group on Afghanistan in New York.
The Quadripartite Group on Afghanistan consists of Pakistan, China, Iran, and Russia.

The Defence Minister emphasized the importance of continuing to provide humanitarian assistance to the 23.7 million vulnerable individuals in Afghanistan.

He expressed optimism that the UN Secretary-General’s call for over three billion dollars in humanitarian aid would receive full funding, particularly from Western donor nations.

Khawaja Asif highlighted that the prompt release of Afghanistan’s frozen national assets, the restoration of the banking system, and connectivity projects are crucial.

He also noted that it is important to collaborate in promoting peace and security within Afghanistan and addressing the threats to regional countries arising from Afghanistan.