'Pakistan's role to bring stability in Afghanistan is of paramount importance'

Afghanistan is a key concern for the US, Pakistan and the region as a whole and Pakistan's role in bringing stability in Afghanistan is of paramount importance, said William Wood, head of the US Delegation in two-day Strategic Dialogue at National Defence University (NDU) here on Tuesday.
The strategic dialogues at various levels helped take Pak-US bilateral ties to a new horizon and we are free but connected on mutual understandings, Williams said at the beginning of the NDU Islamabad and NDU Washington Strategic Dialogue. Lieutenant General Muhammad Yousaf, President NDU opened the strategic dialogue. The experts taking part in the dialogue were of the views that such dialogues are vital to further enhance understanding between the two countries.
NDU Washington also hosts several visits of delegates from Pakistan thus providing them opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the two countries. In his keynote address President NDU Islamabad termed the dialogues of tremendous value and said, "The discussion deals with issues, which impinge heavily upon peace and security," he added. "We have common stakes in finding a reliable way forward. Pakistan's geo-political disposition at the cross roads of the region, unfolds the pivotal role of its critical linkages with US," NDU Islamabad chief said.
He extended warm welcome to the delegates who came a long way to participate in the milestone event, dedicated to studies in contemporary strategic and security environment. Major General Azhar Ali Shah, Director General Institute for Strategic Studies; Research and Analysis highlighted salient features of the Strategic Dialogue. "The dialogue between our two institutions supplements the dialogue process institutionalised at Government levels, and takes place in a free, frank and constructive manner," he said.
"We approach the session with an eye on the future ie sustaining the process and placing it on a firm regular footing," he added. The Strategic Dialogue between NDU Islamabad and NDU Washington will continue for two days.