ISLAMABAD: Information Minister Senator Shibli Faraz on Sunday has said that the commencement of the Intra-Afghan dialogue is a historical milestone and a dawn for the war-torn Afghan people.

In a tweet, the minister said this initiative is victory of Prime Minister Imran Khan's stance that a political settlement is the only solution to the long-standing Afghan issue.

He said that we pray for the development and prosperity of the Afghan people.

The reaction came after Afghan government representatives and Taliban insurgents gathered for historic peace talks aimed at ending two decades of war that has killed tens of thousands of combatants and civilians.

Ahead of face-to-face negotiations in coming days, the warring sides were urged by various countries and groups to reach an immediate ceasefire and forge an agreement that upholds women s rights.

The government of US President Donald Trump, who is eager to claim an end to America s longest conflict as he seeks re-election, expressed its intention to use aid as leverage for a deal.

The opening ceremony came one day after the 19th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the United States that triggered its military involvement in Afghanistan.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020