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PAKISTAN
-AFGHANISTAN
PAKISTAN-AFGHANISTAN
Parliamentarians’
Dialogue - VII
December 11-12, 2012; Islamabad

Report
Pace & Progress of
Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Pakistan Ins titute of

Legislative Development
A n d Tra n s p ar en c y
 WWW.PILDAT.ORG

PAKISTAN-AFGHANISTAN
Parliamentarians’
Dialogue - VII
December 11-12, 2012; Islamabad

Report
Pace & Progress of
Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Pakistan Ins titute of

Legislative Development
A n d Tra n s p ar en c y
PILDAT is an independent, non-par tisan and not-for-profit indigenous research and training institution with the mission to
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Published: December 2012

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 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

CONTENTS
Abbreviations and Acronyms
Forward

Introduction 09

The Official Interactions (January-November 2012) 11

I. 8 Pakistan
th
Afghanistan Joint Economic Commission Meeting: Januar y 16-17, 2012, 11
Islamabad
II. Dr. Hazrat Omar Zakhailwal calls on Foreign Minister: January 17, 2012, Islamabad 11
III. Afghan Parliamentary Delegation visits Pakistan: Januar y 30 to February 01, 2012 11
IV. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Visited Kabul: February 01, 2012, Kabul 12
V. President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali Zardari: February 16, 2012, Islamabad 12
VI. President Karzai Meets Gilani: February 16, 2012 12
VII. President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali Zardari: March 26, 2012, Dushanbe 12
VIII. Second Meeting of Pakistani and Afghan Women Parliamentarians, Kabul, Afghanistan – 14
April 14-16, 2012
IX. Pakistan to host investment conference for Afghanistan; help with trade, economic 14
development: April 24, 2012, Washington DC
X. Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Jawed Ludin calls on Pakistan's Foreign Minister: April 27, 15
2012, Islamabad
XI. President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali Zardari: June 06, 2012, Beijing 15
XII. Heart of Asia Conference: June 14, 2012, Kabul 15
XIII. Pakistan Foreign Minister Met with Afghanistan President: June 14, 2012, Kabul 15
XIV. Pakistan's Prime Minister visited Kabul: July 19, 2012 16
XV. President of Pakistan Met President of Afghanistan: August 15, 2012, Makkah 17
XVI. Foreign Minister's Meeting: September 26, 2012, New York 17
XVII.President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali Zardari: September 26, 2012, New York 17
XVIII.Visit of the High Peace Council of Afghanistan to Pakistan: November 12-15, 2012, 17
Islamabad
XIX. Pakistan Suppor ts Every Effort that Leads to Peace and Security in Afghanistan: November 18
20, 2012, Kabul
XX. Pakistan has handed over draft of Strategic Partnership Agreement to Afghanistan: 18
November 30, 2012, Islamabad

Tripartite Commission Meetings

I. Meeting of the Ar my Chiefs of Pakistan, Afghan and ISAF Commander: May 14, 2012, 20
Rawalpindi
II. Pakistan, Afghanistan, ISAF agree on border coordination: November 21, 2012, Kabul 20

Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group Trilateral Meetings 21

I. Fifth Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group Trilateral meeting: March 26, 2012 Dushanbe, 21
II. Sixth Trilateral Core Group meeting of the US, Afghanistan and Pakistan: April 27, 2012, 21
Islamabad
III. First Ministerial-level Core Group Trilateral Meeting: July 08, 2012, Washington D.C. 21
IV. Talks on safe passage for Afghan Taliban: September 06, 2012, Islamabad 21
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran Trilateral Meetings 23

I. Trilateral summit in Islamabad: Februar y 16-17, 2012, Islamabad 23

Trilateral Summits of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the UK 24

I. Trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and UK: July 19, 2012, Kabul 24
II. Trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and UK: September 26, 2012, New York 24

China, Pakistan, Afghanistan Trilateral Meetings 25

I. China, Pakistan, Afghanistan Hold First Trilateral Dialogue: March 03, 2012, Beijing 25
II. China, Afghanistan, Pakistan hold dialogue on peace: November 29, 2012, Islamabad 25

Other Pakistan-Afghanistan Interactions 26

I. Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce formed 26
II. Trilateral programme for Afghan and Pakistani women MPs: May 14-19, 2012, London 26
III. Joint Chamber Focuses on Challenges in Afghanistan-Pakistan Relations 26
IV. Pakistani Companies Showcase their Products in Kabul: October 22, 2012 27

List of Tables

Table 1: List of Pak-Afghan Official Meetings (January-November 2012) 13

Table 2: List of Tripar tite Commission Meetings 2012 20
Table 3: List of Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group Trilateral Meetings 2012 21
Table 4: List of Trilateral Summits of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the UK 2012 24
Table 5: List of China, Pakistan, Afghanistan Trilateral Meetings 2012 25
Table 6: List of Other Pakistan-Afghanistan Interactions (January-November 2012) 27
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Abbreviations and Acronyms

ACCI Afghan Chamber of Commerce and Industries

ADB Asian Development Bank
AISA Afghanistan Investment Suppor t Agency
ANSF Afghan National Security Forces
APT TA Afghanistan – Pakistan Trade Transit Agreement
CASA Central Asia South Asia Electricity Trade and Transmission Project
CBMs Confidence Building Measurements
CCCI Chaman Chamber of Commerce
CIPE Center for International Private Enterprises
COAS Chief of Army Staff
COGS Chief of General Staff
HPC High Peace Council
IMF Inter national Monetary Fund
ISAF Inter national Security Assistance Force
JEC Joint Economic Commission
KCCI Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industr y
KPCCI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chamber of Commerce
MoU Memorandum of Understanding
NATO Nor th Atlantic Territory Organizations
OIC Organizations of Islamic Countries
PAJCCI Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry
RCCI Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry
RECCA Regional Economic Cooperation Conference for Afghanistan
SCO Shanghai Cooperation Organization
TAPI Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India
UNGA Untied /nations General Assembly
WPC Women's Parliamentar y Caucus
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

FOREWORD
FOREWORD

As neighbours Pakistan and Afghanistan have unquestionable significance for each other. Geo-strategic, political and
economic reasons make it compulsion for both the countries to have cordial relations in their respective vested interests and
larger interests of peace in regional and inter national context.

Since January 2012, there are several sets of official Dialogues between the two neighbouring countries have taken place to
normalise the relations par ticularly make effor ts to bring peace and stability in Afghanistan.

This report narrates major highlights of the pace and progress of the official dialogues from January – November 2012.

The Repor t has been prepared for the Parliamentarians of the two countries who meet periodically, at the unofficial level, to
enhance the role of Parliamentary Diplomacy in improving Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. The Pak-Afghan Parliamentary
Dialogues are facilitated by PILDAT.

The report has been prepared for consideration and adoption at the 7 roundth of Pakistan-Afghanistan Parliamentarians
Dialogue-VII scheduled to be held in Islamabad on December 11-12, 2012.

The report has been prepared by the PILDAT team.

Disclaimer
PILDAT team has made every effort to ensure accuracy of the contents of this report. Any error or omission, therefore, is not
deliberate.

Islamabad
December 2012
07
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Introduction

The Governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan are agreed to bring peace and stability in Afghanistan through enhancing
Bilateral Relation following set of different dialogues.

Since Januar y 2012, the two neighbouring countries held several official Dialogues for promoting Bilateral Relationship
including 5 meetings between Head of the two States.

The first section of this report presents progress in the Bilateral Relations between January-November 2012. The section
presents highlights of the significant interactions that have taken place between the Pakistan and Afghan officials.

The second section notes the Trilateral Dialogues including Pakistan and Afghanistan with US, UK, China and Iran during this
period.

The third section highlights the un-official interactions between the two countries.

09
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
The Official Interactions (January-November
2012)
8t h Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Economic Commission
Meeting: January 16-17, 2012, Islamabad
The 8th Pak-Afghan Joint Economic Commission held a
two days session on January 17, 2012 in Islamabad where
i ssues related to transi t trade, bil ater al tr ade,
reconstruction projects and economic cooperation were
discussed in three committees of (i) Commerce, Trade and
Investment, (ii) Reconstructi on initiatives and (iii)
deepening Economic Cooperation. The 1
meeting was Co-
chaired by the Finance Ministers of both countries, Dr.
Abdul Hafeez Shaikh , Minister of Finance of Pakistan and
Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Minister of Finance of Afghanistan.
In Commerce, Trade and Investment committee, the
Afghan delegation raised difficulties in implementation of
cer tain provisions of the Afghan Pakistan Transit Trade
(APTTA) agreement. The Afghan delegation requested
Pakistan to clear the 700 containers that have been stuck
up in Pakistani por ts. Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Minister of
Finance of Pakistan said that within 7-10 days the issues
related to stoppage of 700 containers will be resolved. On
bilateral trade, the meeting decided that both countries
may enter into a bilateral trade agreement for realizing the
trade potential.
In the Technical Committee on Reconstr uction initiatives in
Afghanistan, the delegation discussed in detail the cur rent
status of various projects initiated under US $300 million
grant pledged by the Government of Pakistan for the
reconstr uction and rehabilitation of Afghanistan. Both
par ties agreed to constitute a joint team to monitor and
evaluate the completed and ongoing projects. Pakistan
committed to complete the constr uction work of Torkham-
Jalalabad Carriageway within a period of one year.
Pakistan also agreed that the 2000 scholarship scheme
may be completed by 2014.
In Regional Economic Cooperation committee, Pakistan
agreed to offer trainings in the area of postal services, and
media. The meeting fur ther reiterated for cooperation in
successful implementation of CASA 1000 and TAPI Gas
Pipeline projects.
1. 8th Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Economic Commission Meeting, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Afghanistan, January 18, 2012:
http://mof.gov.af/en/news/6378
Dr. Hazrat Omar Zakhailwal calls on Foreign Minister:
January 17, 2012, Islamabad
Afghan Finance Minister, Dr. Hazrat Omar Zakhailwal
called on Foreign Minister Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar on
Januar y 17, 2012 in Islamabad. They discussed bilateral
relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan and progress
made at the 8th session of the Joint Economic
Commission held at Islamabad on 16-17 January 2012.
The two sides discussed issues related to transit trade,
regional connectivity and development and reconstr uction
projects funded by Pakistan in vari ous par ts of
Afghanistan. Both sides expressed suppor t for Central
Asia South Asia Regional Energy & Trade (CASA-1000)
project, which aims to transmit energy from Kyrgyzstan
and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan through a
700km electricity transmission line, which is at feasibility
stage.
Afghan Parliamentary delegation visits Pakistan:
January 30 to February 01, 2012
Upon the special invitation of Chairman Senate Farooq H.
Naek , an Afghan Parliamentary Delegation, led by Senator
Fazl-e-Hadi Muslimyar , President of the Upper House of
the Afghan Parliament (Meshrano Jirga), visited Pakistan
from January 30 to Febr uary 01, 2012.
The Afghan Parliamentary Delegation also called on Prime
Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on January 31, 2012 who
emphasized the need for exchange of Parliamentary
delegations to cement brotherly relations between the
people of the two countries. The Prime Minister said the
exchange of delegations was essential to enhance bilateral
relations and Pakistan had always made consistent and
sincere effor ts to improve ties with Afghanistan. He
reiterated that since peace and security of Afghanistan was
critical for peace and security of Pakistan, Islamabad
always suppor ted President Karzai's peace effor ts.
The Delegation also held a meeting with Senate Chairman
Farooq H. Naik who said Pakistan attached impor tance to
its relations with Afghanistan because both the countries
shared common religion, culture, histor y and geographical
proximity whereas Fazal-e-Hadi Muslimyar highlighted the
commonalities between the people of two countries,
saying this had brought them together to strive for the
common destiny of peace and prosperity.
11
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
The members of the Parliamentary delegation included Mr.
Musa Arefi, Deputy Head of Mission, Senator Mr. Lutfullah
Baba, Senator Mr. Gul Ahmad Azimi, Senator Mr. Darakhail
Mangal, Senator Mr. Arifullah Pashtoon, Senator Mr. Hazrat
Shah Nooristani, Senator Mr. Muhammad Daud Ghafari,
Senator Mr. Ehsanullah Bayat, Senator Mr. Hadayatullah
Ahmadzai.
Pakistan's Foreign Minister visited Kabul: February 01,
2012, Kabul
Upon invitation of the Afghan Foreign Minister Dr. Zalmai
Rassoul Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of
2 Pakistan respects President Karzai's leadership. He said
Pakistan Hina Rabbani Khar visited Afghanistan on
Febr uary 01, 2012. The two Foreign Ministers held bilateral
talks.
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar also called on His
Excellency Mr. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic
Republic of Afghanistan.
The two sides held in-depth consultations to work out a
programme of enhanced engagement for promoting
bilateral cooperation in diverse fields, and: re-affirmed the
historical, cultural and religious bonds of friendship that
exist between the two neighbouring countries and their
peoples; reiterated commitment to steer bilateral relations
in accordance with the principles of sovereignty, territorial
integrity, independence, mutual respect and the UN
Char ter. They also agreed that a strong, robust and
independent bilateral relationship would greatly contribute
to peace and stability in the region. Both sides emphasized
the need of working together towards enhanced bilateral
engagement for deepening interaction in diverse fields
including security, development, transit, trade, economic
and investment linkages, infra- str ucture and energy
connectivity and people to people contacts for harnessing
mutual benefits.
President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali
Zardari: February 16, 2012, Islamabad
President Asif Ali Zardari met President Karzai in
Islamabad 3 on Febr uary 16, 2012.
The two leaders discussed a range of issues of grave
impor tance to both the nations with focus on the joint war
on terrorism, the Afghan peace process and the need to
enhance the bilateral trade cooperation.
2. Joint Communique Between Afghanistan And Pakistan For Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan,
January 17, 2012, http://www.mofa.gov.pk/mfa/pages/article.aspx?id=1068&type=1
3. Trilateral summit in Islamabad, The Express Tribune, February 18, 2012, http://tribune.com.pk/story/337882/trilateral-summit-in-islamabad/
12
President Karzai Meets Gilani: February 16, 2012
President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai met with Prime
Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Februar y 16, 2012 at the
Prime Minister House in Islamabad. The two leaders
discussed a range of issues of mutual concern and
focused on diverse avenues of expanded bilateral
cooperation par ticularly in the anti-terror war and
enhanced trade and commerce.
Pakistan's Premier welcomed President Kar zai and said
stability in Afghanistan meant stability in Pakistan and that
that Pakistan would continue to extend full cooperation to
Afghan Go vern ment i n the i nvestigation of the
assassination of Professor Buhanuddin Rabbani. He called
for Afghanistan's cooperation with Pakistan needed for the
implementation of the TAPI gas pipeline project and vowed
his country was prepared to do all it can in resolving the
transit related issues.
The Prime Minister said that Pakistan suppor ted any peace
process in Afghanistan which was Afghan led and Afghan
owned and called for the resumption of operation by the
joint peace commission between the two countries.
President Karzai hailed his trip to Pakistan as one of the
most important ones in the past ten years and thanked
Pakistan for the cooperation in the investigation of
assassination of Professor Rabbani in which two suspects
have been arrested. The President hoped that effor ts
continue so that all perpetrators of the crime are brought to
table. He reaffirmed Afghanistan's position in regards to
peace talks with the armed opposition and said respect to
the Afghan Constitution and women's rights remain as
cr ucial conditions for any talks. He asked Pakistan to allow
entr y to Afghanistan for the truck consignments of text
books for Afghan schools that were stranded for months in
Karachi por t city.
Calling terrorism a common enemy that threatened people
on both sides of the Durand Line, the President termed it
imperative for both the countries to continue to maintain
deep and sincere bilateral relations.
President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali
Zardari: March 26, 2012, Dushanbe
At the sideline of the fifth Regional Economic Cooperation
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Table 1: List of Pakistan Afghanistan Meetings (January-November 2012)

No. Meeting Date City, Country

I. 8th Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Economic January 16-17, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
Commission

II. Dr. Hazrat Omar Zakhailwal calls on Foreign January 17, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
Minister

III. Afghan Parliamentary Delegation visits Pakistan January 30 to Febr uary 01,2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
iv. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Visit to Kabul February 01, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan

v. President Hamid Kar zai met with President Asif February 16, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
Ali Zardari

VI. President Kar zai meets Prime Minister Gailani Islamabad,

February
Pakistan
16, 2012

VII. President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif March 26, 2012, Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Ali Zardari
VIII. Second Meeting of Pakistani and Afghan April 14-16, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
Women Parliamentarians
IX. Pakistan to host investment conference for April 24, 2012, Washington DC, USA
Afghan istan; hel p wi th trade, economic
development

X. Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Jawed Ludin April 27, 2012, Islamabad, Pakistan
calls on Pakistan’s Foreign Minister

XI. President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif June 06, 2012 Beijing, China
Ali Zardari
XII. Hear t of Asia Conference June 14, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
XIII. Pakistan Foreign Minister met with Afghanistan June 14, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
President

XIV. July 19, 2012

Pakistan’s Prime Minister visited Kabul Kabul, Afghanistan

XV. President of Pakistan Met President of August 15, 2012 Makkah, Saudi Arab
Afghanistan
XVI. Foreign Minister ’s Meeting September 26, 2012 New York, USA

XVIII. President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif September 26, 2012 New York, USA
Ali Zardari

XVIII. Visit of the High Peace Council of Afghanistan November 12-15, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
to Pakistan

XIX. Pakistan Suppor ts ever y effor t that leads to November 20, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
peace and security in Afghanistan

XX. Pakistan has handed over draft of Strategic November 30, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
Par tnership Agreement to Afghanistan

13
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
Conference for Afghanistan (RECCA) on March 26, 2012
in Dushanbe, Capital of Tajikistan, a meeting between
President Asif Ali Zardari and President Hamid Karzai was
took place with a focus of discussion on transit –related
problems between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
President Kar zai thanked Pakistan for the actions Pakistan
has taken in resolving difficulties that have affected the
trade and transit between the two countries as well as
wished that Pakistan would continue such cooperation in
the future. He asked Pakistan to extend their railway up to
Torkham border so that Afghanistan will be able to link it to
its new railroad. It was also called on Pakistan to resume
their construction projects that remain halted in
Afghanistan including the 2 roadnd
of Jalalabad-Torkham
Highway, Jinnah Hospital in Kabul, Balkh University, Logar
Hospital and Jalalabad Kidney Treatment Center.
President Zardari promised that Pakistan government
would take necessary actions for completing its
unaccomplished projects in Afghanistan
Second Meeting of Pakistani and Afghan Women
Parliamentarians: April 14-16, 2012
Women's Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) has organised a
delegation of Women Parliamentarians of Pakistan to
Kabul from April 14-16, 2012. The Speaker National
Assembly of Pakistan, Dr. Fehmida Mirza, nominated a
delegation of five members; Ms. Shehnaz Wazir Ali (MNA,
NA-290, Punjab-XVIII, PPPP), Dr. Donya Aziz (MNA, NA-
304, Punjab-XXXII, PML); Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb (MNA,
NA-276, Punjab-IV, PML-N), Ms. Fouzia Ejaz Khan(MNA,
NA-317, Sindh-X, MQM) and Ms. Asiya Nasir (MNA, NA-
332, Balochistan-II, JUI-F) to represent the Women's
Parliamentar y Caucus.
The aim of this delegation was to gauge the effor ts and
initiative taken by the Speaker for networking with the
Afghans on bilateral issues related to role of women in
peace and security, sharing of Parliamentar y practices;
assisting Afghans through Pakistan Institute of Inter-
parliamentary services and by providing a mechanism for
establishing their own Women's Caucus. It has also
provided an oppor tunity in exploring avenues for
cooperation and collectively working on women's agenda.
During their visit, Parliamentarians interacted with Mr.
Masoom Stanikzai , Advisor to the President on internal
security & COE High Peace Council and women
representatives from the HPC. The Delegation also held
14
meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan,
Dr. Zalmai Rassoul , where they shared the goodwill and
commitment from the Speaker and Prime Minister of
Pakistan, to support a peace and reconciliation process led
by the Afghans for the Afghans while insuring stability of
the political process; to support the ongoing bilateral
dialogue between both the countries; and work towards
common interests for a stable and peaceful region. It was
agreed that by Improving the oppor tunities and standards
of education in both the countries, especially for women,
will play an important role in changing the fundamental
mindset of the people and in curbing the violation of human
and women's rights. The delegation also offered its
suppor t in assisting the Afghan Parliamentarians by
facilitating interactive programs and training oppor tunities
at the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services, as a
step towards promoting greater political interaction.
The Parliamentar y Delegation also called on President
Hamid Karzaiand voiced strong desire for peace and
stability in Afghanistan and also briefed the President on
the activities by Parliamentary Caucus of Pakistan National
Assembly, their visit to Kabul and the meetings they had
with Afghan officials including Head of the Secretariat for
High Peace Council, Speaker of Lower House and
members of Women Affairs Commission for the Lower
House.
Welcoming the Pakistani delegation to Afghanistan; the
President said, “This initiative is of immense importance to
both countries and a great sign of a better future”. He
described such visits as effective for fur ther solidifying the
relationship and tr ust-building between the two countries.
He recommended establishing Afghan-Pak-India Inter-
parliamentary Group of women MPs in addition to Afghan-
Pak Group of Women MPs.
Pakistan to host investment conference for Afghanistan;
help with Trade, Economic Development: April 24, 2012,
Washington DC
On sideline of the Annual International Monetar y Fund
(IMF)/World Bank spring meeting Finance Minister of
Pakistan Senator Dr. Hafeez Shaikh met with Afghan
Finance Minister Mr. Omar Zakhilwalon April 24, 2012 in
World Bank Headquar ters in Washington DC.
Senator Dr. Hafeez Shaikh announced that Pakistan will
host an investment conference this summer to help
Pakistani businessmen explore oppor tunities for joint
ventures in Afghanistan. During the conference, Afghan
officials will identify the potential areas, where Pakistani
entrepreneurs could find opportunities attractive for doing
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
business. He said that the investment conference could
also be a prelude to a larger regional initiative, which could
involve Pakistan, Afghanistan, India and other countries.
Omar Zakhilwal sought Pakistani businesses' par ticipation
in the constr uction of ADB-financed road from Torkham to
Jalalabad. He also invited Pakistani investors to take part in
exploiting mining opportunities in Afghanistan.
The finance ministers of the two countries discussed ways
to fur ther their bilateral trade and economic cooperation
including implementation of the Afghan transit trade
agreement.
Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Jawed Ludin calls on
Pakistan's Foreign Minister: April 27, 2012, Islamabad
Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Jawed Ludin called on
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar on April 27, 2012 in
Islamabad. 4Both sides discussed political and economic
issues of mutual interest and matters relating to the
trilateral Core Group of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the US.
The Foreign Minister stressed that Pakistan has an abiding
interest in stability in Afghanistan and its leadership is
committed to strengthening relations with that country.
She said that Pakistan would be suppor tive of any political
solution for peace in Afghanistan that is Afghan-led and
Afghan-owned. She reiterated Pakistan's interest in
extension of transit trade arrangements to the Central
Asian nations bordering Afghanistan.
The Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister thanked Pakistan for
its suppor t to peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.
Apar t from Mr. Jawed Ludin, Afghan Deputy Foreign
Mini ster, among others, th e Afghan Delegation
accompanied by Mr. Masoom Stanakzai , Head of High
Peace Council Secretariat and Ambassador Umer Daudzai
while Pakistan's Foreign Minister was assisted by Foreign
Secretary Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani and Ambassador
Muhammad Sadiq Khan.
Both sides agreed that Pak-Afghan relations are moving in
the right direction.
President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali
Zardari: June 06, 2012, Beijing
On the sideline of the 12th summit of the Shanghai
4. Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Jawed Ludin Calls On Foreign Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan, April 27, 2012,
http://www.mofa.gov.pk/mfa/pages/article.aspx?id=1163&type=1
Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Beijing on June 6,
2012, President Hamid Karzaimet with President Asif Ali
Zardari. During the meeting, the two sides urged to
reinforce their fight against common challenges posed by
terrorism and radicalism to both countries.
President Zardari also reassured the Afghan President that
Pakistan would very soon release containers supplying
Afghanistan's textbooks stuck at the Karachi Por t for
months.
Heart of Asia Conference: June 14, 2012, Kabul
The 'Hear t of Asia' Ministerial Conference–Kabul was
convened on June 14, 2012 in Kabul, Afghanistan, as the
first follow-up ministerial meeting of the Istanbul Process.
The purpose of the Conference was bringing together
Afghanistan and its surrounding region for the first time in
the unique 'Heart of Asia' format, the Conference agreed
the Istanbul Process on Regional Security and Cooperation
for a secure and stable Afghanistan, a non-binding process
that reflects the collective will of the 'Heart of Asia'
countries to engage in sincere, result-oriented cooperation
at all levels.
The conference was attended by 14 ministerial and high-
level delegations from the 'Heart of Asia' countries
including Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan,
Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Russi a,
Tajikistan, United Arab Emirates and Turkmenistan.
Pakistan's Foreign Minister attended the Heart of Asia
Ministerial Conference in Kabul on 14, June 2012. The
Conference decided to hold political consultations at
Foreign Minister Level once a year and to meet on the
margins of the UNGA if needed. The member countries
agreed to join the seven shor t listed CBMs. Pakistan has
offered to join all the seven CBMs with lead role in Disaster
Management CBM along with Kazakhstan.
Pakistan Foreign Minister met with Afghanistan
President: June 14, 2012, Kabul
In order to discuss issues of mutual interest, Hina Rabbani
Khar, Foreign Minister of Pakistan held a meeting with
President Hamid Karzaion June 14, 2012 in Kabul where
both sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation
between the two countries and exchanged views on the
peace process.
15
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
Pakistan Foreign Minister said that the two countries had
been victims of terrorism and extremism and added that
they were interested to see peace talks implemented in
practice. She infor med that Prime Minister Pakistan would
visit Afghanistan and hold talks separately with the
President and other officials of the Afghan government to
determine next steps in the peace process.
Terming Pakistan's role impor tant in Afghanistan's peace
process, President Kar zai said that they would do
everything they could to implement the peace process. He
said that Salahuddin Rabbani, Chairman of the High Peace
Council was scheduled to first visit Saudi Arabia and then
Pakistan and added that he hoped that Pakistan would
provide necessary cooperation to the delegation.
Pakistan's Foreign Minister promised to help with the
peace process and declared that Pakistan would remain
committed to support the peace effor ts in Afghanistan.
She added that Pakistan and Afghanistan had had good
experiences in the past and had to fur ther work for building
an environment of tr ust between the two countries
Pakistan's Prime Minister visited Kabul: July 19, 2012
At the invitation of Hamid Kar zai, President of the Islamic
Republic of Afghanistan, Raja Pervez Ashraf , Prime
Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, visited Kabul
on July 19, 2012.
President Hamid Karzaicongratulated Prime Minister of
Pakistan on being elected as the Prime Minister of the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and assured him of the
Government of Afghanistan's continued cooperation in a
broad range of areas between the two countries.
The two leaders held in-depth discussions on various
issues per taining to bilateral cooperation, and re-affir med
the historical, cultural and religious bonds of friendship
that exist between the two countries. Both leaders agreed
that maintaining a strong, robust and independent bilateral
relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan was their
mutual priority as it would contribute to the stability and
prosperity of the region.
Both sides stressed on the need to work together in the
various fields of security, development, transit, trade,
economic and investment linkages, mining, infrastructure
and energy connectivity and people to people contacts.
They recommitted to their shared vision to advance
regional peace and stability and, in this context, reaffir med
their strong commitment to eliminating the scourge of
16
terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Recalling the successful visit of President Karzai to
Islamabad in Febr uary 2012, which remains a milestone in
the history of bilateral relations, the Afghan side welcomed
and expressed appreciation for the steps being taken by
Pakistan in suppor t of the Afghan peace process, including
the public call on the Afghan armed opposition groups to
par ticipate in the reconciliation process to achieve long-
term peace, stability and progress in Afghanistan.
The Pakistani side reaffirmed its support for an Afghan-led
and Afghan-owned inclusive peace process, and
underlined its determination to redouble effor ts in
facilitating direct intra-Afghan contacts and negotiations.
The two leaders committed to implement additional
concr ete step s to advan ce Afghan peace and
reconciliation. Both sides agreed to facilitate a conducive
environment for the peace and reconciliation process to
move forward.
The two leaders also recognised the impor tance of
pursuing multiple channels of communication and contact
with the Afghan Taliban and other armed opposition
groups. In this context, they emphasised international
suppor t for the Afghan peace process and, in particular,
welcomed the effor ts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the
Republic of Turkey and other countries.
Highlighting the many complementarities of the two
countries in promoting economic development and
integration between them and with the wider region, the
two sides reaffirmed to broaden their cooperation in the
economic sphere, including the full implementation of all
bilateral agreements, such as the Afghanistan-Pakistan
Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA) and the creation of
Special Economic and Industrial Zones. The two sides
agreed to extend APTTA as a first step to Tajikistan as part
of the overall effor t to promote regional economic
cooperation. Both sides also emphasized the importance
of early finalization of the process for establishment of the
Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-Indi a (TAPI) gas
pipeline project, the speedy implementation of the CASA-
1000 power transmission line, and enhancing connectivity
and upgrading rail and road infrastructure between the two
countries.
The Afghan side expressed its gratitude to the Islamic
Republic of Pakistan for hosting Afghan refugees for the
past three decades. Both sides expressed suppor t for the
creation of conditions conducive to the voluntary and safe
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
return of refugees in a dignified and orderly manner, as well
as continued international suppor t to Pakistan as a host
nation.
President of Pakistan met President of Afghanistan:
August 15, 2012, Makkah
The four th extraordinary Islamic Summit was held in
Makkah on August 14-15, 2012. On sideline of the
Summit, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari held a meeting
with Afghan President Hamid Karzai. The two leaders
discussed bilateral ties, regional situation, peace process
in Afghanistan and other issues of mutual concern. 5
President Zardari assured his Afghan counterpar t that
Pakistan would continue to extend all out suppor t for
peace, stability and socio-economic development in
Afghanistan.The p resi dent 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 impor tance as well as the challenges facing
the Muslim world.
Foreign Minister's Meeting: September 26, 2012, New
York
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar met the Foreign
Minister of Afghanistan Mr. Zalmay Rassoul on the
sidelines of the UN General Assembly session on
September 26, 2012 in New York The6 two Foreign
Ministers reviewed progress on the Afghanistan-Pakistan
Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA) and expressed the
commitment of their respective governments to fully
implement the agreement. They also discussed the issue
of cross-border infiltration and resultant shelling, and the
impor tance of working closely to effectively address
border management issues.
5. Zardari, Karzai discuss bilateral ties, regional situation, Daily Dawn, August 15, 2012, http://dawn.com/2012/08/15/zardari-karzai-discuss-
bilateral-ties-regional-situation/
6. Pak, Afghan FMs review progress on transit trade agreement, Daily Dawn, September 26, 2012, http://dawn.com/2012/09/26/pak-afghan-fms-
review-progress-on-transit-trade-agreement/
Foreign Minister Khar underlined the importance of peace
and stability in Afghanistan, and reiterated Pakistan's full
suppor t for an Afghan-owned, Afghan-driven, and Afghan-
led reconciliation process.
The two foreign ministers also discussed the issue of
cross-border infiltration and resultant shelling, and the
impor tance of working closely to effectively address
border management issues.
President Hamid Karzai met with President Asif Ali
Zardari: September 26, 2012, New York
On the sideline of UNGA, President Asif Ali Zardari met with
Afghan President Hamid Karzai in New York on September
26, 2012 in New York.
The two leaders focused on “moves against terrorism and
on coordinating their policies,” and focused on building
tr ust as they move towards seeking a peaceful solution to
the Afghan dispute.
President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan was eager to extend
Afghan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement to the Central
Asian states for promoting trade and economic activities in
the region. He expressed the hope that, as a first step,
Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan would be able to sign
the trilateral transit and trade agreement this year.
Visit of the High Peace Council of Afghanistan to
Pakistan: November 12-15, 2012, Islamabad
Upon the invitation of Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, a high level delegation of the
High Peace Council led by Chairman Salahuddin Rabbani
visited Islamabad on November 12-15, 2012.
The HPC delegation briefed the Pakistan side on the
progress made in the peace and reconciliation process and
underlined the importance of Pakistan's role in this regard.
Pakistan suppor ts Afghanistan's vision and roadmap for
achieving durable and lasting peace in Afghanistan. The
two sides appealed to the Taliban and other armed
opposition groups to par ticipate in the Afghan-led and
Afghan-owned reconciliation process to end violence. The
two sides agreed to jointly work for holding an Ulema
Conference which will include religious scholars from
Pakistan, Afghanistan and other Islamic countries.
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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
The two sides recognized that close and consistent
cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan is key to
building tr ust and confidence between the two countries
and strengthening joint bilateral effor ts in promoting peace
and stability as well as overcoming the ongoing trends of
violence and extremism. They called for long term and
consistent mutual cooperation based on mutual interest
and respect.
The two sides stressed that talking to and maligning each
other through media leaves little space for serious
dialogue. Ther efore, all gover nment officials and
spokespersons should refrain from making hostile
statements and avoid blame game.
The High Peace Council and Pakistani authorities
discussed the issue of cross border incursions and
shelling. It was decided to discuss ways and means to
create conducive conditions and initiating bilateral
mechanisms that would completely end the cross-border
shelling. The contacts between Pakistan Army and Afghan
National Army in this regard were lauded and encouraged.
To initiate an effective mechanism in order to facilitate
consistent and practical steps, the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs of Pakistan and the High Peace Council of
Afghanistan agreed to have more frequent contacts to
enhance peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region.
The delegation also called upon President Asif Ali Zardari
and Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf and met with
General Ashfaq Kayani, Chief of Army Staff. The delegation
also held meetings with Pakistan's religious and political
leaders. Both sides had an extensive exchange of views
including briefing by the Pakistan authorities on the
investigation of the assassination of Shaheed Ustad
Burhanuddin Rabbani.
Pakistan Supports Every Effort that Leads to Peace and
Security in Afghanistan: November 20, 2012, Kabul
President Hamid Karzai held a meeting with Pakistan's
Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Par vez Kayani on
November 20, 2012 in Kabul to discuss a number of
issues of mutual interest.
In the meeting where discussions were frank, cordial and
in depth, both sides talked about Afghanistan peace
process, the necessary future steps, as well as ways to
7. Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff to President Karzai: Pakistan Supports Every Effort That Leads To Peace And Security In Afghanistan, Office of the
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, November 20, 2012, http://president.gov.af/en/news/14862
18
fur ther enhance the bilateral relations. 7
President Karzai thanked Pakistan for its warm reception
and hospitality to Head of the High Peace Council and his
accompanying delegation during their recent visit to
Pakistan and praised Pakistan's decision to release, to the
success of the peace process, a number of Taliban
prisoners.
Central to discussions was how to ensure peace and
stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where Pakistan Chief
of Army Staff said that the peace process needed to be
fur ther intensified as they were looking forward to the
second visit, soon, of the Afghan Peace Council to
Pakistan. He affirmed Pakistan's support of every effort
that leads to peace and security in Afghanistan while
Stressing that peace and stability in Afghanistan was in the
interest of Pakistan.
The meeting was also attended by Afghanistan Defense
Minister Bismillah Khan, to whom General. Kayani
extended a formal invitation to visit Pakistan, which
Minister Khan accepted with graciously.
Pakistan has handed over draft of Strategic Partnership
Agreement to Afghanistan: November 30, 2012,
Islamabad
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar met with her Afghan
counterpart Dr Zalmai Rassoul on November 30, 2012 in
Islamabad.
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar handed over draft of
Str ategi c Par tnershi p Agreement to her Afghan
counterpart Dr. Zalmai Rassoul in Islamabad.
Both the countries agreed to operationalise the joint
commission on release of prisoners and holding of Ulema
conference in Kabul to advance the peace process. The
two sides also agreed to extend the Afghan Pakistan Transit
Trade Agreement to Tajikistan in the first phase and then
extend it to the other Central Asian countries for
enhancement of regional trade.
After the meeting, addressing a joint news conference‚
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said the visit of Afghan
Foreign Minister marks the initiation of negotiations on the
strategic partnership between the two countries. She
expressed keenness of Pakistan to build strong bilateral
relations with Afghanistan on the basis of mutual respect
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

and sovereign equality. She said it is Pakistan's strong

desire to fur ther strengthen cultural and religious affinities
existing between the two neighboring countries.
Afghan Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul said his countr y
sees relations with Pakistan as the most significant one in
terms of the common challenges faced by both the
countries. He said his country will never allow its soil used
against Pakistan. Afghanistan will do ever ything possible
to avoid the damage coming from Pakistan. He said
shelling into Pakistan from Afghan side has reduced
significantly recently and both the countries need to work
together to sort out the issues.

Dr. Zalmai Rasool said peace in Afghanistan is a

prerequisite for peace and stability in Pakistan and the
region. He said Pakistan has a crucial role to play in the
success of reconciliation process.

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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Tripartite Commission Meetings
Meeting of the Army Chiefs of Pakistan, Afghan and ISAF
Commander: May 14, 2012, Rawalpindi
Top military commanders of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the
International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) met in
Islamabad on May 14, 2012. This meeting was in
backdrop of the Pakistani Parliamentary review of new
rules of engagement with US/NATO/ISAF, following the
Salala incident of November 26, 2011 where 24 Pakistani
Sol di er s wer e kil led by US fo rces. A set o f
recommendations on new terms of engagement with the
US and NATO were prepared by the Parliamentar y
Committee on National Security and presented to the
Parliament. The Parliament has set various conditions for
reopening NATO supply routes.
Chief of Ar my Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Afghan
Militar y Chief General Sher Mohammad Karimi and ISAF
Commander General John Allen led their sides at the
meeting of the Tripartite Commission where they shared
ideas on establishing a credible communication and
coordination mechanism to obviate recurrence of Salala-
like incidents that seriously affected Pakistan-US relations
and also strained Pakistan's ties with Afghanistan.
Pa kista n, Afg han ist an, ISAF a gree on border
coordination: November 21, 2012, Kabul
After reviewing the ongoing military operation on both
sides of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, Pakistan, ISAF
and Afghanistan signed the Tripartite Border Coordination
Mechanism on November 21, 2012 after Army Chief
General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani held meetings with top
commanders of ISAF and Afghan Army in Kabul.
The meeting was par t of Tr ipar tite Coordination
Mechanism and attended by COAS General Ashfaq Kayani,
Acting ISAF Commander Lieutenant General Nicholas
Car ter and Afghan COGS General Sher Karimi. They
reviewed ongoing military operations in Afghanistan and
adjoining Tribal Areas of Pakistan.
The participants also discussed transition of responsibility
from ISAF to Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) as
per the ISAF drawdown plan in 2014 and measures to
gr adual ly enhanc e Pak-Afg han bi later al bor der
coordination arrangements until and beyond 2014. The
three sides agreed to continue cooperation for enduring
success, peace and stability on both sides of the border.

The meeting also focused on border control measures and

mechanisms put in place to avoid untoward incidents on
both sides of Pakistan-Afghanistan border. It was the first
meeting of the Commission, which is a forum to raise and
process contentious issues and facilitate settlement since
the NATO attack on two military check posts in Mohmand
Agency in November 2011.

The Pakistani side briefed the meeting on the steps taken

by it to control transpor tation of material which could be
used to manufacture improvised explosive devices and
proposed measures to curb the menace on the other side
of the border.

Table 2: List of Tripartite Commission Meetings 2012

No. Meeting Date City, Country

I. Meeting of the Army Chiefs of Pakistan, May 14, 2012 Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Afghan and ISAF Commander

II. Pakistan, Afghanistan, ISAF agree on border November 21, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
coordination

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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

A fg ha n i sta n - Pa ki sta n -U S C ore Gro up Foreign Secretary and the United States delegation was led
Trilateral meetings by Mr. Marc Grossman , special representative for
Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The meeting, hosted and chaired by Mr. Jilani, reviewed
Fifth Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group Trilateral
developments related to the Afghan-led peace and
meeting: March 26, 2012, Dushanbe
reconciliation process, and the continued role that
Senior officials from Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United
Pakistan and the United States can play in support of this
States held the fifth meeting of their trilateral Core Group on
process. The sides agreed to establish two separate
March 26, 2012 at the Afghan embassy in Dushanbe. 8
working groups to ensure that concrete steps are taken in
facilitating direct negotiations between Taliban leaders and
The Afghan delegation was led by Mr. Jawed Ludin, Deputy
the Afghan government.
Foreign Minister, the Pakistani delegation was led by Mr.
Jalil Abbas Jilani, Foreign Secretary and the United States
One working group, at the level of the three countries'
delegation was led by Mr. Marc Grossman, special
permanent missions to the United Nations in New York, will
representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan.
cooperate on the United Nations Security Council's role in
suppor t of the Afghan peace and reconciliation process.
The three sides welcomed the revival of the Core Group
after an interval of six months in the wake of the
The other working group, which will function within the
assassination of Professor Burhanuddin Rabbani, former
framework of the trilateral Core Group, will work on
Afghan president and chairman of the High Peace Council
providing a safe passage environment for those Taliban
in Kabul.
leaders and senior members who are willing to engage the
Afghan government in direct negotiations.
Mr. Jawed Ludin met Mr. Abbas and his delegation
separately ahead of the Core Group meeting to discuss the
First Ministerial-level Core Group Trilateral Meeting:
peace process and various aspects of the bilateral
July 08, 2012, Washington D.C.
relationship. Both sides underscored the need for close
The first ministerial-level Core Group meeting between
contact and cooperation at a critical time for both
Pakistan, US and Afghanistan was held on July 08, 2012 in
countries.
Washington DC. The purpose of the Core Group is to
enhance cooperation between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and
Sixth Trilateral Core Group meeting of the US,
the United States to support an Afghan peace and
Afghanistan and Pakistan: April 27, 2012, Islamabad
reconciliation process. The Meeting was attended by
The sixth meeting of the trilateral Core Group of
Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Dr. Zalmai Rassoul,
Afghanistan, Pakistan and United States of America held in
Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar and
Islamabad on April 27, 2012. The Afghan delegation was
US Secretar y of States, Ms. Hillary Clinton issues a joint
led by Mr. Jawed Ludin , Deputy Foreign Minister, the
statement.
Pakistani delegation was led by Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani ,

Table 3: List of Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group Trilateral Meetings

No. Meeting Date City, Country
I. Fifth Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group March 26, 2012 Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Trilateral Meeting

II. Sixth Trilateral Core Group meeting of the US, April 27, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
Afghanistan and Pakistan
III. First Ministerial-level Core Group Trilateral July 08, 2012 Washington DC, USA
Meeting

IV. Talks on safe passage for Afghan Taliban September 06, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan

8. Fifth Afghanistan-Pakistan-US Core Group trilateral meeting held in Dushanbe, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Afghaistan, March 26,
2012, http://mfa.gov.af/en/news/ 8048

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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

It was stated that Afghanistan should be a peaceful,

secure, stable, and prosperous nation living in a peaceful,
secure, stable and prosperous region suppor ted by
enduring partnerships with the international community.
Great effor t and sacrifice by the people of Afghanistan,
Pakistan, the United States and the inter national
community has decimated al-Qaida's core leadership in
the region, reducing the threat to international peace and
security that led the international community to intervene
in Afghanistan in 2001.

Dr. Zalmai Rassoul welcomed Pakistan's and the United

States' support for Afghan peace efforts, noting especially
former Prime Minister Gilani's Februar y 2012 statement
expressing Pakistan's suppor t for Afghan reconciliation
and calling on the Afghan Taliban and related groups to
par ticipate in an intra-Afghan process for reconciliation
and peace.

Talks on safe passage for Afghan Taliban: September

06, 2012, Islamabad
Beginning what could be a decisive initiative for the Afghan
endgame, Pakistan, Afghanistan and the United States
started for mal negotiations on September 06, 2012 in
Islamabad to establish a mechanism to provide safe
passage to leaders of the Afghan Taliban willing to enter the
peace process.

The inaugural meeting of the newly-established working

group was attended by senior officials from Pakistan,
Afghanistan and the United States. The 9
three countries
agreed to form the working group back in April as par t of
efforts to kick start the Afghan reconciliation process,
which has been plagued by mistrust between the three
governments and the Taliban. The three sides had decided
to continue talks on the issue. The group would help
arrange a safe passage for Taliban who were willing to
travel for peace talks in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

9. Trilateral initiative: Formal talks begin on safe passage for Afghan Taliban, Express Tribune, September 06, 2012,
http://tribune.com.pk/story/432291/trilateral-initiative-formal-talks-begin-on-safe-passage-for-afghan-taliban/

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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran Trilateral Meetings

Trilateral summit in Islamabad: February 16-17, 2012,

Islamabad
Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan held a two-day summit on
counterterrorism in Islamabad on February 16-17, 2012.
President Asif Ali Zardari , President Hamid Karzaiand
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad attended the summit.
The three neighboring countries decided to ensure the
territorial integrity and sovereignty of regional states and
agreed to commence a process for an agreement pledging
not to allow any threat emanating from their respective
territories against each other. They agreed to broaden
cooperation in the political‚ security‚ economic‚ cultural‚
social and educational fields and enhance people to people
contacts including exchange visits of parliamentarians‚
academicians and journalists. They also agreed to
enhance connectivity through raid and rail links; develop
mutually beneficial cooperation in the energy‚ mining and
minerals‚ agriculture and cooperate for the safe‚ voluntar y
and early return of Afghan refugees to their homeland in
honour and dignity.

The leaders agreed to contribute to the development and

reconstr uction in Afghanistan and broaden cooperation
in the political‚ security‚ economic‚ cultural‚ social and
educational fields and enhance people to people
contacts including exchange visits of parliamentarians‚
academicians and journalists.

The three countries agreed to enhance three-way trade by

facilitation measures‚ including preferential tariff and free
trade arrangements as well as bar ter trade. Commerce
Ministers would outline steps for enhancing three-way
economic cooperation. They also expressed commitment
to expand trade in transit and encourage the private sector
to invest in the three countries. The summit mandated
Foreign Ministers of the three countries to prepare and
coordinate a Road Map for Trilateral Cooperation for
submission to the next Summit. It also mandated the
Interior Ministers to develop a framework of trilateral
cooperation particularly in the areas of counter terrorism‚
counter-narcotics and border management within six
months. The summit mandated senior officials to meet
regularly to monitor the implementation of the decisions
taken by the Trilateral Summits.

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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Trilateral Summit of Pakistan, Afghanistan and President Karzai agreed with Pakistan President to finalize
the UK by the end of 2013 the draft Agreement on Strategic
Cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and UK: July

David Cameron reiterated his countr y's commitment “to
19, 2012, Kabul
suppor t Afghanistan and Pakistan in working out solutions
President Hamid Kar zai hosted a special trilateral meeting
for peace and stability in the region and in their quest for the
of Afghanistan, Pakistan and United Kingdom (UK)
socio-economic development of their people.”
attended by Raja Per vez Ashraf, Prime Minister of Pakistan
and David Cameron, Prime Minister of the UK in Kabul on
In conclusion, the meeting agreed that Afghan and
July 19, 2012. The three countries exchanged views on the
Pakistan foreign ministers meet in the near future to follow
joint combat against terrorism, the Afghan peace process
up talks on the strategic cooperation document between
and current situation in the region. In their negotiations, it
the two countries.
was agreed that three countries would begin their close
contacts to hold regular talks and work together to develop
an action plan on the basis of which specific measures will
be taken by Afghanistan, Pakistan and the UK to jointly fight
terrorism and enhance bilateral cooperation for facilitation
of peace talks. The three leaders reiterated their strong
commitment to working together to eliminate the scourge
of terrorism, reaffirming their suppor t to Afghanistan's
peace process.

Trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and UK:

September 26, 2012, New York
The second round of Trilateral Summit of Pakistan,
Afghanistan and the UK was held on the sidelines of the UN
General Assembly session in New York on September 26,
2012. President Asif Ali Zardari, President Hamid Karzai
and Prime Minister David Cameron reaffir med their
commitment to work for the goals of regional peace,
stability and development; and for the elimination of the
scourge of terrorism.

President Zardari underscored the need for an Afghan-led

and Afghan-owned peace process in Afghanistan. He
stated that people of Afghanistan and Pakistan are bound
together by faith, cultural heritage and shared values; and
Islamabad rightly views a strong and stable Afghanistan
not only in the interest of Pakistan, but also in the interest of
the region.

Table 4: List of Trilateral Summits of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the UK 2012

No. Meeting Date City, Country

I. Trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and July 19, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
UK

II. Trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and September 26, 2012, New York, USA
UK

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Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012

Ch ina , Pakistan, Afgha nistan Tri lateral

Meetings China, Afghanistan, Pakistan hold dialogue on peace:
November 29, 2012, Islamabad
The Second round of the Trilateral meeting between
China, Pakistan, Afghanistan Hold First Trilateral
Pakistan, Afghanistan and China was held on November
Dialogue: March 03, 2012, Beijing
29, 2012 in Islamabad. Three sides review progress since
Pakistan-Afghanistan and China held a trilateral meeting
first trilateral dialogue; believe dialogue plays positive role
for the first time in the history on March 03, 2012 in Beijing.
in enhancing friendly cooperation. They agreed that an
The meeting was chaired by Ambassador Luo Zhaohui,
intra-Afghan inclusive dialogue was essential to ensure
Chief of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Ministry of
durable peace and stability in Afghanistan. In the meeting,
the Foreign Affairs of China, Dr Amanullah Jaydoon,
the three sides reviewed the progress since the first
Director General of the First Political Department of the
trilateral dialogue and believe that the dialogue plays a
Ministr y of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan, and
positive role in enhancing friendly cooperation between the
Ambassador Alamgir Babar, Additional Secretary of the
three countries and maintaining peace and stability in the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan.
region. The meeting discussed regional situation with
special reference to Afghanistan, efforts for peace and
Afghanistan and Pakistan stated that they were willing to
reconciliation and trilateral cooperation in various fields.
develop their bilateral relations fur ther and address
The meeting also welcomed the Afghan High Peace
regional challenges together. The Chinese side welcomed
Council's visit to Islamabad and the joint press statement
the idea and expressed willingness to play a constr uctive
issued after the visit. It also appreciated the steps taken by
role, also expressing suppor t for the statement on intra-
Pakistan in response to their request.
Afghan peace and reconciliation issues on Febr uary 21,
2012 by President Hamid Karzai and the statement of
Pakistan and China reiterated their support to the Afghan-
Febr uary 24, 2012 by Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza
led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process,
Gilani.
while the three sides were on the same page that dialogue
among Afghan groups are essential for peace. The1 0three
The three countries suppor t the United Nation's leading
countries agreed that close and consistent cooperation
role in the context of inter national cooperation. Also, they
among regional countries is essential to overcome the
believe that the role of international organisations and
trends of violence. They reiterated their commitment to
cooperatio n mechanisms, such as the Shanghai
cooperate in fight against terrorism, extremism and
Cooperation Organization, should be brought into full play.
separatism.
The three countries suppor t regional countries in
The three sides support the United Nations' leading role in
enhancing political mutual trust and accommodating each
the context of international cooperation. They agreed that
other's concerns. They agreed to explore the feasibility of
the SCO can play an important role in peace and stability in
trilateral cooperation in areas of connectivity, resource
the region and that the SCO regional mechanism can
development, and combating the three forces of terrorism,
provide better solutions to the emerging new security,
separatism and extremism.
political and economic challenges.

The meeting was chaired by Syed Abrar Hussain , Director

Table 5: List of China, Pakistan, Afghanistan Trilateral Meetings 2012

No. Meeting Date City, Country

I. China, Pakistan, Afghanistan Hold First Trilateral March 03, 2012 Beijing, China
Dialogue
II. China, Afghanistan, Pakistan hold dialogue on November 29, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
peace

10. China, Afghanistan, Pakistan hold dialogue on Peace, Daily Times, November 29, 2012,
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2012%5C11%5C30%5Cstory_30-11-2012_pg7_2

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General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan. The Afghan menaces (for instance by putting chips on the trucks and
and Chinese delegations were led by Mr. Azizuddin containers). He said that quantitative restrictions and duty
Ahmadzada , Director General, First Political Division, structures would also be worked out.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan and Mr. Huang
Xilian, Counsellor of the Department of Asian Affair of the In presence of media Mr. Motiwala thanked Afghan board
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, respectively. members for letting Pakistan hold the top slot for the first
year.
Other Pakistan-Afghanistan Interactions Trilateral programme for Afghan and Pakistani women
MPs: May 14-19, 2012, London
From 14-19 May, CPA UK hosted a delegation of eight
Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce formed
women members from the Parliaments of Afghanistan and
Pakistan and Afghanistan have formed a Joint Chamber of
Pakistan for a trilateral programme with UK colleagues that
Commerce and Industr y “Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of
focused on women's par ticipation in politics, gender
Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) on March 13, 2012 in
diversity and forced marriage.Discussions covered a
Karachi. Mohammad Zubair Motiwala was unanimously
broad range of subjects, including approaches to
elected the first President of the Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber
legislating against early and forced marriage, enabling
of Commerce & Industry (PAJCCI). This 11
was announced
economic empowerment, the option of gender quotas, and
after the first board meeting held on March 13, 2012 in
women's role in peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
whi ch delegates fr om al l r espective chamber s
par ticipated.
Whilst in the UK, they met with Lynne Featherstone MP, UK
Equalities Minister; Rt Hon. Harriet Harman QC MP,
During the board meeting it was decided that elected
Shadow Deputy Prime Minister; the Lord Speaker, Rt Hon.
leadership would be on rotational basis, one year from
The Baroness D'Souza CMG; Baroness Prosser OBE ,
Pakistan and another year from Afghanistan. From each
Deputy Chair of the Equalities and Human Rights
side, two Vice Presidents have been elected. Total board
Commission; and Baroness Royall, Shadow Leader of the
constitutes 11 members from each country.
House of Lords.
Mr. Motiwala said that PAJCCI was not only cooperation
The Members also spent a day at the FCO with the Forced
between Chambers of Karachi and Kabul but was a joint
Marriage Unit, a joint initiative between the Foreign and
collaboration between Karachi Chamber of Commerce
Commonwealth Office and Home Office, and engaged with
(KCCI), Chaman Chamber of Commerce (CCCI), Khyber
several civil society organisations.
Pakhtoonkhwa Chamber of Commerce (KPCCI) and
Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce (ACCI). Clarifying the
Forming part of a long-term collaboration between CPA UK
logic behind this under taking he maintained that key trade
and the Parliament of Pakistan, the trilateral programme
routes were situated in these geographical entities. He
was a result of ongoing dialogue with the leader of the
added that when the two governments had involved the
Pakistan delegation, Hon. Dr. Nafisa Shah MNA, who as
private sector, it was obser ved that matters were being
wel l as being Secretar y to Pakistan's Women's
dealt on political basis government-to-government. Hence
Parli amentary Caucus is Vice Chairperson of the
they had decided to create a business-to-business
international CPA.
platform so that unanimous resolutions were presented
before the governments. He said that augmentation of
Joint Chamber Focuses on Challenges in Afghanistan-
trade was vital to bring peace to the area. He lamented that
Pakistan Relations
though Pakistan shared 1500 km long border the contracts
A Pakistani business delegation visited Afghanistan and
for infrastructure building were being taken by India that
attended the Pak – Afghan Business Delegation meeting in
also expor ted commodities like pharmaceuticals to
Kabul on October 08, 2012. The gathering was organized
Afghanistan. Noting that problems vis-à-vis transit trade
by the Pak – Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and
commenced when roads were used instead of railways, he
Industry (PAJCCI) in cooperation with the Afghan Chamber
said that they would tr y to get IT solutions for such

11. Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce formed, Pakistan Observer, March 13, 2012, http://pakobserver.net/detailnews.asp?id=144960

26
 Report
Pace & Progress of Pakistan-Afghanistan Official Dialogue
January-November, 2012
of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) and the Centre
International for Private Enterprises (CIPE).The delegation
consisted of 34 traders and board members of the joint
chamber. The delegati on members consisted from
different sectors, such as carpet production, medicine,
manufacturing, dried and fresh fruits, gem-stones, marble,
construction materials, coal and textile. The main purpose
of the event was to facilitate business-to-business-
contacts and find resolutions for the challenges in the
business relationship between both countries. The visit of
the business delegation was aimed at enhancing the
business relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Currently, the trade between both countries exceeds USD
1.5 billion and mostly consists of impor ts from Pakistan.
The expor ts from Afghanistan only comprises of USD 200
million.
The President of PAJCCI, Mr. Mohammad Zubair
Motiwala stated that the establishment of PAJCCI is a main
step to fur ther deepen business relations between the two
neighbours. In this regard, he highlighted that the joint
chamber neither belongs to Afghans nor Pakistani. “It is a
joint chamber, which provides ownership to both nations.”
This is especially visible on the new website, which
provides information to each of the target groups.
The Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industries, Mr.
Muzamal Shinwari , declared to support the activities of
the joint chamber on behalf of the Afghan gover nment. He
highlighted that Pakistan is the most important business
par tner of Afghanistan. Mr. Shinwari furthermore pointed
out that the establishment of PAJCCI is an impor tant step
to implement the Afghanistan – Pakistan Trade Transit
Table 6: List of Other Pakistan-Afghanistan Interactions (January-November 2012)
No. Meeting Date City, Country
I. Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce
formed
II. Trilateral programme for Afghan and Pakistani
women Mps
III. Joint Chamber Focuses on Challenges in
Afghanistan-Pakistan Relations
IV. Pakistani Companies Showcase Their Products
in Kabul
12. Pakistani Companies Showcase their Products in Kabul, Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries, October 22, 2012,
http://www.acci.org.af/component/content/article/38-news/311-pakistani-companies-showcase-their-products-in-kabul-.html
Agreement (APTTA).
Pakistani Companies Showcase their Products in Kabul:
October 22, 2012
More than 40 companies from Pakistan presented their
products and services in the Intercontinental Hotel, Kabul
on October 22, 2012. The exhibition was labeled under the
slogan “Made in Pakistan” and provided the oppor tunity to
get a closer look on products from Pakistan, such as
construction materials, food and livestock, carpet and
textile as well as handicrafts and machinery. 1 2
The exhibition was organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber
of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), in cooperation with the
Afghan Embassy in Islamabad and the Pakistani Embassy
in Kabul. Furthermore, the Kabul Chamber of Commerce
and Industries (KCCI) and the Pak – Afghan Joint Chamber
of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) provided support to
the organisers.
Several high-ranking representatives from Afghanistan
and Pakistan attended the inaugural ceremony of the
exhibition. Among them were Mr. Mohammad Sadiq , the
Pakistani Ambassador to Afghanistan, Mr. Khan Jan
Alkozay, Vice-President of PAJCCI, Dr. Sadruddin Sahar ,
Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Wafiullah
Iftikhar, Chief Executive Officer of the Afghanistan
Investment Suppor t Agency (AISA), Chaudhry Pervaiz ,
Chief Executive Officer of RCCI and Mr. Faiz Rasoul , the
Pakistani Commercial Attaché to Afghanistan.
March 13, 2012 Karachi, Pakistan
May 14-19, 2012 London, UK
October 08, 2012 Kabul, Afghanistan
September 06, 2012 Islamabad, Pakistan
27
 Pakistan Institute of
Legislative Development
A n d Tr a ns pa re n cy

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