By Aamir Latif
KARACHI, Pakistan (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday to discuss the latest developments in Afghanistan, where the Taliban have taken power.
Khan, according to a statement by the Foreign Ministry, stressed the need for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan, which is possible only through an inclusive political settlement in the war-torn country.
Terming a peaceful Afghanistan vitally important for Pakistan as well as regional stability, Khan said that the international community must stay positively engaged in support of the people of Afghanistan, to help address humanitarian needs and ensure economic sustenance.
He also underscored the importance of coordinated approaches in addressing the evolving situation, noting that Pakistan attached high importance to the role of the Troika Plus (Russia, the US, China, and Pakistan) format.
The Taliban took control of the Afghan capital Kabul on Aug. 15, with the president and other top officials leaving the country. The group is now in consultations with other Afghan leaders to form a government.
The swift takeover triggered an exodus from the country, with thousands trying to leave from Kabul international airport – the only area of the country still under US control – with an Aug. 31 deadline looming for evacuations to finish.
US President Joe Biden has said that he aims to complete the US troop pull-out by the end of the month.
The Pakistani premier also expressed satisfaction at the "upward" trajectory of Pakistan-Russia relations.
The two leaders agreed to closely cooperate within the Shanghai Corporation Organization to promote regional peace and security.