Fazlur Rehman: Pakistan and Afghanistan Should Strengthen Relations

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, speaking at an event organized by the Afghan Embassy in Islamabad to mark August 15, said the historical, religious and cultural ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan require the two countries to build a shared future as strong and peaceful neighbors.

Fazlur Rehman said he believes Pakistan will support Afghanistan and Afghanistan will support Pakistan, adding that the two countries, due to their geographical positions, can serve as a joint bridge connecting the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia and East Asia.

Referring to existing challenges between Kabul and Islamabad, he said both sides want these issues resolved and that obstacles can be overcome through dialogue, understanding and negotiations.

“We want Afghanistan and Pakistan, as two neighboring and brotherly Islamic countries, to stand before the world as one soul,” he said.

The JUI-F leader also called for greater cooperation among Islamic countries, saying the Islamic world should reduce its dependence on global powers and focus more on its own capabilities and collective strength.