Zardari, Karzai discuss bilateral ties, regional situation

President Asif Ali Zardari and Afghan President Hamid Karzai met in Mecca Tuesday on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) summit, convened by Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz to discuss the challenges facing Muslim countries and to further strengthen unity and solidarity among the Muslim world. The two leaders discussed bilateral ties, regional situation, peace process in Afghanistan and other issues of mutual concern. Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Muhammad Naeem Khan were also present during the meeting. President Zardari assured his Afghan counterpart that Pakistan would continue to extend all out support for peace, stability and socio-economic development in Afghanistan. The president said as Pakistan and Afghanistan are linked with historic cultural, religious and neighborly bonds, the destinies of the two nations are intertwined. He said Pakistan considers Afghanistan’s peace and security as its own peace and security, adding, a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan was also in Pakistan’s interest. The two leaders were unanimous in the view that all groups should shun violence and join the peace process in Afghanistan, for peace and stability in the region. During the meeting, the two leaders besides discussing bilateral ties, regional situation and peace process in Afghanistan also exchanged views on the issues of international importance as well as the challenges facing the Muslim world.