Pak army chief says CPEC benefits can be shared with Afghanistan

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif has said that "a peaceful Afghanistan" can start regional connectivity and the benefits of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) can be shared between the two countries.

Array

General Sharif also said instability within and without has deeply affected the socio-economic climate in Pakistan.

Array

"Practical steps are required to manage the Pak-Afghan border for the gainful conclusion of Operation Zarb-e-Azb," he was quoted by the London-based The Nation, as saying while addressing the South Asia Security Conference at the Marshal Centre in Munich, Germany.

Array

He said perpetual instability in Afghanistan has negatively affected the region, and insisted that peace and reconciliation in the neighbouring country was of vital importance for the whole region.

Array

"It is essential for the socio-economic development of Pakistan to address the menace of extremism," he added.

Array

General Sharif is scheduled to address a meeting at Portcullis House on Thursday.

Array

He will also address members of the British think tank 'RUSI' on the same day.