KABUL - Beijing and Moscow have welcomed President Ashraf Ghani’s recent initiatives to promote peace in his war-torn country.
In Beijing, the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said China appreciates Kabul’s efforts for achieving peace in Afghanistan.
“China calls on all parties to the conflict in Afghanistan to achieve reconciliation and peace through dialogue and political negotiation,” the ministry spokesperson said.
GengShuang was quoted as saying by Xinhua: “China firmly supports the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process.”
He added Beijing remained willing to work with the international community for peace in Afghanistan. Beijing would keep playing a constructive role in stabilizing the war-hit country.
On Sunday, President Ghani extended a ceasefire with Taliban for another 10 days. The truce declared in Ramadan expired on the fifth day of EidulFitr.
Meanwhile, Russia called the conflict in Afghanistan a ‘fratricidal war,’ hailing the government’s decision to extend the ceasefire.
“We welcome the statement of Ghani on the extension of the temporary ceasefire announced by his Afghanistan during holy month of Ramadan,” the Foreign Ministry of Russia said.
In a statement, the ministry said: “It is important the decision to halt hostilities does not apply to international terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan, primarily ISIS.”
The new initiative would give impetus to efforts for ending the war and would contribute to the beginning of a peaceful dialogue and national reconciliation.”   (Pajhwok)