Pakistan, UAE agree to work on peace in Afghanistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates' Armed Forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan agreed on Sunday to work jointly for peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The two leaders held talks here on bilateral matters and strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and expressed their resolve to work closely to root out the scourge, said a joint statement issued at the conclusion of the visit of Sheikh Mohamed.

"The Crown Prince recognized the efforts and unparalleled sacrifices made by Pakistan to eliminate terrorism and extremism," the statement said.

The two leaders agreed to work closely for the lasting peace and stability of Afghanistan. The UAE hosted Pakistan-facilitated talks between the Taliban and U.S. officials in Abu Dhabi weeks ago.

Khan briefed the UAE leader about the efforts Pakistan has made to support and facilitate the Afghan-owned and Afghan-led reconciliation process. He also appreciated the role the UAE has been playing in the reconciliation talks, the statement said.

The two sides also agreed to explore further collaboration in areas of training, joint exercises and defense production.

Sheikh Mohamed visited Pakistan following the UAE's announcement of 3-billion-U.S. dollar support to Pakistan. In return, Pakistan welcomed the UAE's investment in its oil and gas, logistics, ports and construction sectors.

According to the statement, Pakistan and the UAE are expected to hold a joint ministerial commission to be co-chaired by respective foreign ministers in Abu Dhabi next month on bilateral cooperation.