Pakistan and Afghanistan Promise to Set Aside Their Differences

Leaders of Pakistan and Afghanistan promised to set aside their differences regarding Islamabad's previous support for the ousted Taliban regime during a joint press conference. President Musharraf, who frequently referred to Mr. Karzai as his brother, stated that his government is ready to provide all kinds of assistance to Afghanistan to meet its needs. Musharraf said, 'I have clearly told my brother that Pakistan's only goal is to help Afghanistan and support him and his government.' He mentioned that their plan aligns with Mr. Karzai's plan. President Musharraf noted that the fight against drugs and terrorism has been the main focus of his discussions with Mr. Karzai. He stated that both sides have decided to coordinate their efforts in the fight against drugs. According to Musharraf, coordinated efforts will also be made in the fight against terrorism. He emphasized that both countries are determined not to allow their territory to be used as a haven for terrorists. The President of Pakistan expressed hope for a bright future in the relations between the two countries. Mr. Hamid Karzai referred to Pakistan as a good neighbor and said that President Musharraf's visit to Afghanistan would strengthen the brotherly ties between the two countries. The Afghan leader promised to consider the possibility of releasing Pakistani prisoners held in Afghanistan. Karzai mentioned that some of our Pakistani brothers are in Afghanistan, sent here by those unfamiliar with the situation in Afghanistan. 'We will review the release of that group of young men who have no connection to Al-Qaeda or terrorism and allow them to return to their homes.' Thousands of Pakistanis entered Afghanistan following the U.S. military attacks last October to punish the Taliban for harboring Osama bin Laden to fight alongside them. Both Karzai and President Musharraf stated that they have no information regarding the current whereabouts of Osama bin Laden or whether he is alive or dead. At the end of his visit to Afghanistan, Musharraf presented a check for $10 million to Karzai to assist the people of that country.