KABUL - Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said on Tuesday that Pakistan was committed to support an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process in Afghanistan, the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported. The prime minister made the statement during a meeting with German Defense Minister Dr Thomas de Maiziere who visited Gilani in Islamabad.

The two exchanged views on defense cooperation and military collaboration, war on terror and regional and international issues, according to APP.
Gilani said Pakistan wanted to see brotherly and neighborly Afghanistan as an independent, peaceful and prosperous country, as this was also in the best interests of Pakistan.

He said that Pakistan had suffered heavy losses both in terms of lives and the economy as a result of the war on terror.

He added that a political solution was the only durable solution because it carries the sanction and support of the people and their ownership, which offers the best guarantee for the longevity of peace.

APP reported the German Defense Minister said he appreciated Pakistan's efforts in improving the relations with its neighboring countries.

De Maiziere said Pakistan's role in the post-withdrawal of NATO forces after 2014 was very important for the security and stability of Afghanistan and indeed of the region.
De Maiziere left Pakistan on Wednesday for a visit to Afghanistan. (Tolo News)