Military solution cannot achieve peace in Afghanistan: China

The special Chinese envoy on Afghan affairs today stressed that a military solution cannot achieve peace in Afghanistan and expressed China's "firm support" for Pakistan's efforts in the war-torn country.
Ambassador Deng Xijun's remarks came nearly a week after the US announced its new strategy for Afghanistan, involving greater Indian participation and slammed Islamabad for providing safe haven to militants and prolonging the 16-year conflict.
The visit by the Chinese official came as Pakistan asked the US to postpone a visit by Alice Wells, the Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan. She was scheduled to visit Pakistan this week.

Deng discussed regional and international efforts for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan with Pakistan's Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua here, the Foreign Office said.
"Ambassador Deng Xijun reaffirmed China's continuing and firm support to Pakistan's commitment and efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan," it said.
"Emphasising that there was no military solution to the conflict, he underlined the need for a politically negotiated settlement through an Afghan-led Afghan-owned peace process."
Janjua underlined the importance of Pakistan-China strategic partnership, calling for closer cooperation between the two nations to promote peace and stability in the region.
She expressed satisfaction over the deliberations held between the two sides during her Beijing visit from August 21 -23.