ISLAMABAD: The United States Special Representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, concluded a two-day visit to Islamabad, expressing Washington’s commitment to standing with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism, particularly the challenges posed by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
During his visit, West held crucial meetings with Pakistan’s Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, Special Representative on Afghanistan Asif Durrani, and Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani.
1/2 Departing Islamabad after productive two-day visit. Important conversations with @JalilJilani, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, @AsifDurrani20, and MOI Secretary Durrani about grave security challenges posed by TTP as well as imperative to protect Afghan refugees.
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) December 8, 2023
2/2 The United States stands with Pakistan against terrorism in the region. We are also grateful for close communication with Islamabad re: refugee protection issues, including collaboration with IOs and humane and dignified treatment.
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) December 8, 2023
In a statement, West highlighted the importance of the discussions on regional security and the protection of Afghan refugees. He underscored the imperative to address the security challenges posed by the TTP.
Close Communication Between Pakistan and US
The US envoy acknowledged the ongoing repatriation efforts and discussions on refugee protection issues, expressing gratitude for close communication with Islamabad. He mentioned the US’s contribution of $77 million to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and $9 million to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for addressing the needs of vulnerable Afghans, including those affected by recent earthquakes.
1/2 Spent valuable time with leadership of UNHCR and IOM in Islamabad, discussed their support for the most vulnerable and at-risk Afghans. Proud that U.S. has contributed $77M to UNHCR this year for these efforts, and $9M to IOM to respond to recent earthquakes.
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) December 9, 2023
West also took the opportunity to meet with Afghan refugees in Pakistan, praising their courage. He thanked Pakistan, UNHCR, IOM, and other partners for their efforts.
The visit comes as part of a series of high-level engagements between the US and Pakistan, reflecting discussions on various issues, including Afghanistan, and regional security.
Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes led a previous US delegation.