2nd Bosporus Regional Cooperation Summit - Trust and Good Neighborly Relations Essential for Promotion of Trade says Pakistan Commerce Minister


ISTANBUL, 23 November 2011: Makhdoom Muhammad Amin Fahim, Pakistani Senior Minister for Commerce while addressing the 2nd Bosporus Regional Cooperation Summit here today said the trust and good neighbourly relations are essential elements for promotion of regional trade.
Speaking at a Round Table on the topic of “New Partnerships and Trust Focused Neigbourhood Policy,” the Commerce Minister said the newly concluded Pakistan-Afghanistan Transit Trade Agreement opens new horizons for enhancing bilateral economic cooperation. He also referred to his recent visit to India and said the decision by Pakistan to grant MFN status India will further boost regional trade. Makhdoom Fahim said Pakistan has successfully negotiated several free trade and preferential trade agreements with many countries in the region and beyond which will help dividends for the people of the region.
Highlighting the major successes of the present government in Pakistan, Mr. Fahim said exports of Pakistan has witnessed steady growth and exceeded US $ 24 billion last year despite global economic slow down and war on terror. Similar is the case with foreign exchange reserves that have crossed the US $ 17 billion mark.
Makhdoom Fahim informed the audience about the liberal investment regime in Pakistan. He said Pakistan has established Special Economic Zones and attractive incentives offered in these zones include: 10 years income tax holiday for zone developer, duty free import of plant and machinery, 5 years income tax holiday for investors, one window facilities and provision of utilities. Cheap and skilled labour, low cost of inputs and liberal investment policies are resulting in renewed interest in Pakistan, he added.
The Minister identified power generation, infrastructure, agriculture and construction as priority areas for investment.
Other speakers who addressed the round-table included H.E. Ekmeleddin İhsanoğlu, the Secretary General, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation; H.E. Dr. Emir Mansur Burghei, Under Secretary, Foreign Affairs of Islamic Rep. of Iran; H.E. Kürşad Tüzmen, Former Minister of External Trade; and Halil Akıncı, Secretary General, Turkish Council. Organized by International Cooperation Platform, about 200 high-ranking businessmen and officials from 41 different countries are attending the event.
ENDS
Photo caption: Makhdoom Muhammad Amin Fahim (2nd from Left to Right), Pakistani Senior Minister for Commerce attending the 2nd Bosporus Regional Cooperation Summit at Istanbul on 23 November 2011

Earthquake in Eastern Turkey - Pakistan condoles with Turkey offers immediate assistance

ANKARA, 10 November 2011: The entire Pakistani nation is deeply shocked over the terrible news of the earthquake that hit eastern Turkey Wednesday night. President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani have expressed their deep sympathies and condolences to the leadership and the people of Turkey on the loss of precious lives and destruction of property. The Government and the people of Pakistan stand in full solidarity with their Turkish brothers and sisters and are ready to send any assistance to help overcome the effects of this natural calamity. ENDS

Joint Statement Adopted At The Conclusion Of The Sixth Trilateral Summit Of The Presidents Of The Islamic Republic Of Afghanistan, The Islamic Republic Of Pakistan And The Republic Of Turkey, Istanbul, 1 November 2011

His Excellency Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and His Excellency Abdullah Gül, President of the Republic of Turkey held their sixth Trilateral Summit meeting in Istanbul on 1 November 2011.
At their Trilateral Summit meeting the Presidents,
Recognizing that the Trilateral Ankara Summit Process provides a comprehensive platform for furthering high level political dialogue, security cooperation and development partnership among the three countries,
Recalling that dialogue and cooperation among all levels of public and private sector institutions including parliaments, military, intelligence and security organizations, as well as media and civil society within the framework of the Ankara Process have contributed to the enhancement of relations among their countries,
Reiterating their determination to furthering the Trilateral Summit Process by elaborating multi-dimensional trilateral cooperation in all relevant fields of joint interest including public-private partnerships,
Convinced of the value of improved regional cooperation, as an enduring way to address common challenges through regional ownership,
Welcoming ``The Istanbul Conference for Afghanistan - Security and Cooperation in the Heart of Asia`` that will be hosted by Turkey on 2 November 2011 and encouraging their regional partners to participate in this collective effort,
Cognizant of the intertwined nature of security and development, and reaffirming that trans-regional development remains a key priority of the Trilateral Summit Process,
Reasserting their resolve to cooperate in their fight against terrorism, which constitutes a crime against humanity, and extremism in all its forms, including by effectively tackling its financial resources,
Noting with appreciation the successful conduct of the Urban Military Warfare Exercise in March 2011, in accordance with the decisions of the Fifth Trilateral Summit Meeting,
Decided the following:
1. The Trilateral Ankara Summit Process is relevant more than ever, in that it provides an invaluable platform for a sincere, genuine and comprehensive exchange of views, and to resolve disagreements. Through this process, we are able to develop concrete responses in addressing, inter alia, security threats and challenges and combating terrorism. As brotherly countries, we are determined to maintain dialogue and consultations with each other, particularly with regard to urgent issues of common concern to us.
2. Various challenges to security exist in our region. Improvements to our security need to be sustained through combined efforts. In this vein, we devoted the main focus of our Sixth Trilateral Summit to security cooperation.
3. We condemn strongly the heinous terrorist attack against Prof. Burhanuddin Rabbani, Chairman of the High Peace Council of Afghanistan, which also targeted peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. Afghanistan and Pakistan agree on establishing a cooperation mechanism to contribute to the national investigations regarding the assassination of former President and Head of High Peace Council, Professor Burhaneddin Rabbani. This mechanism of cooperation will begin work at the scene of the attack. Both countries will work in close coordination as per their respective laws.
4. Contacts between our high-level military and security organizations as well as intelligence services contribute to our efforts to combat terrorism and extremism. We note the fruitful meetings of the Highest Level Military Officials, Ministers of Interior and Directors of our Intelligence Services held in Istanbul prior to our Summit meeting on 1 November 2011.
5. Contacts and cooperation among all institutions, security institutions foremost, will be increased.
6. We welcome the signing of the Protocol on Conduct of Mutual Exercises and Courses and of the Protocol on Training Cooperation between Turkey, Afghanistan and Pakistan. These protocols will enable us to transform our common will to cooperate into concrete projects.
7. Our Ministers of Foreign Affairs will form a commission to elaborate ways to enhance our cooperation and consultation.
8. Relations between the Parliaments of the three countries is an essential part of our enhanced cooperation. With this understanding, we express our intention to hold the second joint meeting of the Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Commissions of Turkey, Afghanistan, and Pakistan in the first half of 2012.
9. We feel deep sorrow for our brothers who lost their lives as a result of the flood disaster in the south of Pakistan and the earthquake in the east of Turkey. The Turkish, Afghan and Pakistani peoples will continue to stand by in solidarity.
10. Within the framework of the Trilateral Summit process, the Joint Natural Disaster Response Simulation Exercise will be organized in November 2011 with the participation of experts of three countries. We will continue to engage our relevant institutions to cooperate in the field of emergency management.
His Excellency Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan extended their thanks to H.E. President Abdullah Gül and to the Government and brotherly people of Turkey for hosting the sixth Trilateral Summit.

Pakistan to fully cooperate in Rabbani death probe despite legal limits

Pakistan's interior minister said there are legal limits to a joint commission Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed on Tuesday to form in order to investigate former Afghan President Burhanuddin Rabbani's assassination, but assured that his government will work in full cooperation to put the criminal to justice. More

Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to continue dialogue process

ISTANBUL, Nov. 2 (APP): Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan have expressed their determination to continue the dialogue process and consultations, particularly with regard to urgent issues of common concern. According to a joint statement issued at the conclusion of the trilateral summit of the three countries, hosted by Turkish President Abdullah Gul in Istanbul, the three countries reaffirmed their resolve to cooperate in the fight against terrorism, which constitutes a crime against humanity. The leaders condemned heinous terrorist attack on Prof.  Burhanuddin Rabbani and said it was also targeted against the peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan.  
Afghanistan and Pakistan also agreed on establishing a cooperation mechanism to contribute to national investigations regarding the assassination of former Afghan President and head of High Peace Council, Burhanuddin Rabbani.
This mechanism of cooperation will begin work at the scene of the attack, the joint statement added.
Both the countries, Pakistan and Afghanistan, will work in close coordination as per their respective laws.
The summit expressed the confidence that contacts between high level military and security organizations and intelligence services would contribute to efforts to combat terrorism and extremism.
Contacts and cooperation among all institutions, security institutions would be increased, the three countries agreed.
The joint statement hoped that protocols signed on the occasion, would enable transform the common will to cooperate into concrete projects.
The Foreign Ministers of the three countries would form a commission to elaborate ways to enhance the cooperation and consultations.
The three countries expressed their intention to hold the second joint meeting of the Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Commissions of three countries in the first half of next year.
The summit decided that within the framework of the trilateral process, the Joint Natural Disaster Response Simulation Exercise will be organized this month with the participation of experts of three countries.
Relevant institutions of three countries would cooperate in the field of emergency management, said the joint statement.
The three countries recognized the efforts of Turkey for holding this trilateral summit that provided a comprehensive platform for furthering high level political dialogue, security cooperation and development partnership among the three countries.
The trilateral summit also emphasized the need that dialogue and cooperation among all levels of public and private sector institutions including parliamentarians, military, intelligence, and security organizations, as well as media, and civil society within in the framework of the Ankara Process, should be continued.
The three countries were also convinced of the value of improved regional cooperation as an enduring way to address common challenges through regional ownership.
The three countries also welcomed the Istanbul for Afghanistan "Security and Cooperation in the Heart of Asia” , being hosted by Turkey here on November 2.
The Trilateral Summit among Turkey, Afghanistan and Pakistan, was convened by Turkey for the sixth times as the summit process was started in 2007 on the initiative of President Abdullah Gul.
The Trilateral Summit process has evolved a dynamic process where multi-dimensional cooperation possibilities are elaborated and nurtured into concrete projects that would be for the benefit of the peoples of the three countries and that of the region.
The sixth summit took place at a time when most of these areas of cooperation and mutual support proved to be of high relevance.
The three countries agreed to have security issues at the core of the event. Alongside the Summit, three additional high level meetings took place among ministers of Interior, Chiefs of Staff and heads of intelligence agencies of the three countries.
Three countries also decided to form a commission under the chairmanship of Ministers of Foreign Affairs to elaborate confidence building measures to enhance their cooperation and consultations.
They also agreed to increase contacts and cooperation among all institutions including the security institutions.
The summit concluded with the signing of two important documents, namely Protocol on Conduct of Mutual Exercise and Courses and the Protocol on Training Cooperation while Turkey and Pakistan also signed a Currency Swap Agreement on the occasion of Trilateral Summit

President Zardari meets with Iranian Foreign Minister

ISTANBUL, 2 November 2011: Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Ali Akbar Salehi, who was in Istanbul to attend regional conference on Afghanistan, called on President Asif Ali Zardari here on Wednesday. The Iranian Foreign Minister conveyed a message of good wishes from Iranian President Mahmood Ahmadinejad. During the meeting, the President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari and the Iranian Foreign Minister expressed their resolve to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries in diverse fields. The trilateral summit held here in Istanbul between Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan and Istanbul Regional Conference were also discussed during the meeting.

Pakistan assures full support to world community to establish peace in Afghanistan

ISTANBUL, 2 November 2011: Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar Wednesday assured the international community that Pakistan would extend full support and cooperation to all initiatives aimed at establishing peace in Afghanistan as per the aspirations of Afghan people. She was addressing Istanbul Regional Conference for Afghanistan  entitled “Security and Cooperation in the heart of Asia” here jointly hosted by Turkey and Afghanistan and was attended by representatives from neighbouring countries of Afghanistan, international community and world organizations. The day long conference was inaugurated with the address of Turkish President Abdullah Gul and Afghan President Hamid Karzai.
Hina Rabbani Khar in her address said the world community must commit itself to respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and reaffirm the principle of non-intervention and non-interference in its internal affairs.
The Minister reminded the international community that Pakistan is the first country to gain and the first country to suffer due to happenings in Afghanistan.
She said, “Pakistan should be allowed to define its own national interests.”
The Foreign Minister reiterated that it is in Pakistan’s interest to have a secure, stable and peaceful Afghanistan.
She said the important thing is to forge serious and sincere security intelligence cooperation.
The Minister said, “We are happy that yesterday’s trilateral summit hosted by Turkey put together a mechanism of cooperation to address the concerns of both Afghanistan and Pakistan.”
Hina Rabbani Khar reiterated Pakistan’s support in Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process of peace and reconciliation.
She hoped that this process will be inclusive and lead to re-establishment of a socio-equilibrium that conforms to aspirations of Afghan people, their customs and traditions.
The Foreign Minister hoped that the stability and peace in Afghanistan would enable over three million Afghan refugees being hosted by Pakistan for over three decades to return to their homes in safety and honour.
She said, “Pakistan also attaches considerable importance to various other valuable initiatives and processes at sub-regional levels to find a peaceful solution to the Afghan issue.”
She said these initiatives include trilateral process including Iran, quadrilateral including Tajikistan and Russia.
Hina Rabbani Khar said, “Pakistan also attaches key importance to trilateral process among Pakistan, Afghanistan and United States.”
She said that time has come to create the requisite synergy adding that the exiting regional organizations particularly ECO and SCO,can play an important role in giving tangible and pragmatic dimensions to shared interest of the stakeholders in the region.
The Foreign Minister said Pakistan will continue to endeavor to enhance its bilateral cooperation with Afghanistan.
“It is our sincere effort to work together to realize the vision of  peace and prosperity contained in Pakistan-Afghanistan declaration of directions of bilateral cooperation of 2009.”
Hina Rabbani Khar said Pakistan and Afghanistan had already signed transit trade agreement and Pakistan is also contributing towards capacity building of Afghan institutions.
The Foreign Minister assured Afghan people of Pakistan’s fullest support in their endeavor to overcome all challenges and secure for themselves a bright future of stability, peace, and prosperity.

Istanbul Regional Conference demands secure, stable and prosperous Afghanistan and region

ISTANBUL, 2 November 2011: The Istanbul Regional Conference held here on Wednesday adopted a declaration envisaging a broad range of effective Confidence Building Measures to promote a secure and stable Afghanistan in a secure, stable and prosperous region. According to the declaration adopted by 11 ministers besides representatives of 29 neighbouring countries of Afghanistan known as Heart of Asian Countries, they also agreed on a number of CBMs in political and security, economic, educational and cultural fields. The Istanbul Regional Conference jointly hosted by Turkey and Afghanistan also envisages guarantees of territorial integrity, sovereignty and refraining from the threat or use of force to resolve disputes.
The participants also discussed guarantees for non-intervention and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.
The conference was addressed by Turkish President Abdullah Gul, Afghan President Hamid Karzai and representatives of neighbouring and regional countries.
According to declaration adopted in the conference, the participants reaffirmed their desire for enhanced cooperation for fighting terrorism, including through exchange of information.
The document emphasized the need for cooperation and interaction with Afghanistan and among regional countries in counter-narcotics and trafficking of illegal goods a lethal substance.
In the economic field, it called for building on the model of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement to expand trade across the region and development of a coherent strategy to promote a regionally coherent trade and border management.
It called for Preferential Trade Agreement within the region, establishment of databases and a system of data exchange in trade and economic spheres; improvement of exchange of information on commercial opportunities and improvement in the provisions for the settlement of commercial disputes.
It emphasized the need for a strategy to encourage participation of the private sector in regional development programmes and exchange of information on development of international tourism and tourist infrastructure.
The joint declaration aimed at encouraging the establishment of a framework for enhanced cooperation among chambers of commerce; training of personnel in various fields of economic activity and a strategy to develop a regionally connecting infrastructure.
The conference supported cooperation on easier flow of energy resources and in this context expressed support for TAPI and CASA-1000 projects which should be implemented with a broader financial contribution by World Bank, Asian Development Bank and the Islamic Development Bank.
It also called for exploring the possibility of developing hydroelectric power in the region and cooperation in water resources besides development of large-scale irrigation works.
It also supported a more effective regional cooperation in the agricultural and rural fields and development of infrastructure around main ports of the region.
In the realm of education, the conference called for setting up a structured regional education exchange programme, emphasis on science, expansion of links among educational institutions of the regional countries and removal of hatred references from curriculum.
It called for promotion of mass media as a driver for democratic development and mutual understanding and establishment of a multi-disciplinary professional and technical training centre in Tajikistan.On culture side, it envisaged joint projects aimed at disseminating information on various cultures and traditions in the region, preservation of archaeological sites, and joint efforts to promote the true nature of Islam as a religion of peace, tolerance and human accomplishment. It called for promotion of inter-faith and intra-cultural dialogue.The conference called for relaxation of visa regimes and relaxation of rules and restrictions at border crossings for legitimate travelers.As a follow up on the Istanbul Conference, a decision has been taken to meet at ministerial level in Kabul in June next year. Kabul meeting would be preceded by a preparatory meeting at technical level.
The conference reaffirmed the commitments enshrined in the Kabul Declaration of Good Neighbourly Relations and agreed to promote regional security and cooperation with a view to build confidence and trust among the countries of the region.
It also agreed that Afghanistan and its regional partners will have to develop and coordinate contribution to advance the principles of United Nations.
The conference recognized Afghanistan’s role as the land bridge in the Heart of Asia, connecting South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East and reaffirmed the support in the strongest possible terms to secure, stable and peaceful future of Afghanistan.
The conference welcomed Afghanistan’s willingness and determination to use its regional and historical position to do its part to promote security and peaceful economic cooperation in the region. 
The conference also recognized Afghanistan as a sovereign, independent, democratic state with inviolable borders, which constitutes an integral component of the peace, well being and prosperity of the region.
The conference extended its support to the government of Afghanistan’s priorities on the issues of security, governance, economy, counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics and regional cooperation.
Through joint declaration, the conference recognized Afghanistan’s determination not to let its territory be ever again a safe haven for terrorists, terrorism and illicit drugs.
It also appreciated Afghanistan’s commitment to respect the territorial integrity of its neighbours and to ensure them that its relations with any state, will not be directed against any third party.
The conference also appreciated Afghanistan’s commitment and determination to combat terrorism in all its forms.
The conference also assured full support and cooperation to Afghanistan to counter the threat posed by the illicit production, trafficking, and consumption of drugs originating in Afghanistan.
The Istanbul Regional Conference assured its readiness to engage in sincere, result-oriented cooperation at the regional level, which will not just help Afghanistan but will also be beneficial to security and prosperity in the region as a whole.
It also appreciated the importance of regional organizations, bilateral, trilateral and quadrilateral initiatives among different countries of the region that contributes to the improvement of regional cooperation and extended its full support to these initiatives.

Regional Conference ends with assurance to work together for peace and prosperity in Afghanistan

ISTANBUL, Nov. 2 (APP): The day long Istanbul Regional Conference hosted jointly by Turkey and Afghanistan here on Wednesday concluded with adoption of declaration to join hands to ensure peace, security, development and prosperity in Afghanistan by the international community. The Istanbul Regional Conference was attended by over 29 foreign ministers, senior officials and representatives of neighbouring countries of Afghanistan and other key players. Turkish President Abdullah Gul inaugurated the day long conference which was also addressed by Afghan President Hamid Karzai, foreign ministers of neighbouring countries and representatives of other international organizations which are playing an active role for ensuring peace and security in the region.
Foreign Ministers of Turkey and Afghanistan Ahmet Davutoglu and Zalmai Rassoul addressing a joint press conference here after the conclusion of the Istanbul Regional Conference giving the details said they are confident that Istanbul Declaration adopted here would be implemented to ensure peace and security in Afghanistan and in the region.
The declaration included a broad range of effective Confidence Building Measures to promote a secure and stable Afghanistan in a secure, stable and prosperous region.
The delegates said the international community and especially the neighbours of Afghanistan are confident that they will implement the declaration.
The participants reaffirmed their desire for enhanced cooperation for fighting terrorism, including through exchange of information.
The declaration emphasized the need for cooperation and interaction with Afghanistan and among regional countries in counter narcotics and trafficking of illegal goods.
The Istanbul Regional Conference was the first in a series of international conferences on Afghanistan over the next six months.
It will be followed by Bonn conference on 5 December which will provide an opportunity for the international community to reiterate its long term commitment to Afghanistan and for all parties to commit to making progress on key development priorities.
It will be followed by Chicago conference in May next year that will focus on international funding for the Afghan National Security Forces after 2014.

British Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Ministers calls on President Zardari

ISTANBUL, 2 November 2011: British Parliamentary Under-Secretary Mr. Alistair Burt, who was in Istanbul to attend regional conference on Afghanistan, called on President Asif Ali Zardari here on Wednesday. During the meeting, President Asif Ali Zardari and the British Parliamentary Secretary expressed their resolve to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries in diverse fields. They also discussed trilateral summit held here and participated by Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan.

Full document "Istanbul Process on Regional Security and Cooperation for a Secure and Stable Afghanistan"

2 November 2011
İSTANBUL PROCESS ON REGIONAL SECURITY AND COOPERATION FOR A SECURE AND STABLE AFGHANISTAN
1.         We have convened in İstanbul on 2 November 2011, under the leadership of H. E. Mr. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and H. E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, President of the Republic of Turkey, and at the joint invitation of H. E. Mr. Zalmai Rassoul, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and H. E. Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Turkey, to reaffirm our strong commitment to a secure, stable and prosperous Afghanistan in a secure and stable region.
2. We affirm the commitments enshrined in the 2002 Kabul Declaration of Good Neighbourly Relations and agree that promoting regional security and cooperation requires measures to build confidence and trust among countries. Hence, we will be guided by the following set of common principles and commitments, which shall include, but not be limited to:
-- Recognition of the central role of the United Nations in international affairs;
-- Equal and indivisible security;
-- Respect for the territorial integrity of States;
-- Non-intervention in the internal affairs of other states;
-- Support for the stability and peace in Afghanistan, as well as respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity;
-- Continued support for the Government and people of Afghanistan, as they develop their country, re-construct their economy, and further improve their human capital;
-- Resolutely combating and eliminating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and violent extremism, and preventing safe havens for terrorists and terrorism in the region;
-- Dismantling terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens, disrupting all financial and tactical support for terrorism;
-- Acknowledging that terrorism poses a threat to international peace and security as well as a common challenge to our societies, to the region, and that it can only be addressed through the concerted efforts of all countries;
-- Facilitating the voluntary, dignified, and orderly return of Afghan refugees;
-- Support for an inclusive Afghan national process of reconciliation, in accordance with the Constitution of Afghanistan and in ways which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-driven;
-- Constructive and supportive relationship between countries of the region;
-- Refraining from the threat or use of force and not to allow one’s territory to be used against another;
-- Elimination of illicit drug production, trade and trafficking;
-- Preventing the cultivation and production of narcotics;
-- Preventing the activities of extremist organizations and organized crime networks through enhanced cooperation;
-- Supporting and promoting law enforcement cooperation;
-- Peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law;
-- Fulfillment of obligations under international law;
3.         Afghanistan and its international and regional partners will seek to develop and coordinate contributions to advance the above-stated principles.

4.         We recognize Afghanistan’s role as the land bridge in the ‘Heart of Asia’, connecting South Asia, Central Asia, Eurasia and the Middle East, and reaffirm our support in the strongest possible terms to the secure, stable and peaceful future of Afghanistan. We welcome Afghanistan’s willingness and determination to use its regional and historical position to do its part to promote security and peaceful economic cooperation in the region.
5.         We respect Afghanistan as a sovereign, independent, democratic state, which constitutes an integral component of the peace, well-being and prosperity of the region and beyond. We support the Government of Afghanistan’s priorities on the issues of security, governance, economy, counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics and regional cooperation.

6.         We re-emphasize our determination to help Afghanistan fight terrorism and illicit drugs. In return, Afghanistan re-iterates its commitment to respect the territorial integrity of its neighbours, and to assure them that its relations with any state, on which it will be transparent, will not be directed against any third party. Afghanistan also reconfirms its will and determination to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, strengthen its economy, especially by ensuring good governance, promotion of investments, and addressing corruption, fight radicalism and narcotrafficking, respect human rights, in particular the rights of women, and to work together with its friends and partners for enhanced regional co-operation.
7.         We reiterate our resolve to combat terrorism, extremism and separatism in all its forms and manifestations, the financing, harbouring, training and equipping of such activities, and acknowledge that terrorism, extremism and separatism pose a common challenge that can only be addressed through concerted efforts by countries of the region and the broader international community.

8.         We will strengthen cooperation with Afghanistan, as well as regional and international cooperation, to counter the threat posed by the illicit production, trafficking, and consumption of drugs, in accordance with the principle of common and shared responsibility. Cooperation in combating the illicit drug production, trafficking and consumption should be exercised in a comprehensive manner and comprise poppy and cannabis crops eradication, elimination of drug laboratories, interception of drug caravans, detention of drug traffickers, freezing proceeds from illicit drugs, diversion of drug precursors, as well as introduction of alternative agriculture projects and strengthening measures directed at reduction of the level of drugs consumption in regional and international markets.

9.         In assisting Afghanistan, we endorse its efforts at promoting an inclusive reconciliation process and welcome and support the efforts of the High Peace Council, and the implementation of the Afghan Peace and Reintegration Program. We strongly condemn the heinous terrorist attack which took the life of the former President and Head of the High Peace Council, Professor Burhanuddin Rabbani. We will continue to support Afghan-led efforts to reconcile and re-integrate those Afghan militant elements who renounce violence, cut links with terrorist groups, and accept the Afghan Constitution. We remain convinced that a peaceful Afghanistan, with functioning institutions and strengthened security forces, is key to a successful regional cooperation. We remind that the international community and the region are not separated and emphasize that we all have a stake in the security and stability of the region.

10.       We mark our full support to the ongoing process of transition of responsibility for providing security in Afghanistan from ISAF/NATO to ANSF in the framework of the ‘Kabul Process’. We remain convinced that progress to be made between now and 2014, when transition will be completed, will make a decisive impact on the future course of efforts underway in Afghanistan. However, transition should assist Afghanistan and development of its relevant structures with a sustained support in the form of long term commitments to be made by regional and international partners. We welcome ongoing efforts by the Government of Afghanistan and its regional partners to foster trust and cooperation with each other as well as relevant cooperation initiatives developed by the countries concerned and regional organizations. The promotion of a sound regional cooperation in the ‘Heart of Asia’ will be an important contribution to these efforts. In this context, enhanced trade connectivity along historical trade routes will also constitute an added value and will require conducive regional environment.

11.       We recognise that Afghanistan is today at a critical juncture. It still faces significant security, economic, and development challenges, which are of an interconnected nature. These challenges cannot be addressed without building upon the already constructive support of Afghanistan’s regional and international partners. The efforts to meet these challenges are most effective when they are Afghan-owned and driven, and supported by all partners and pursued in a transparent and constructive manner.

12.       While not all challenges specifically affect each country in similar degree, no single state or international organization can deal with these challenges by itself. A concerted effort towards stability and prosperity is needed. Consequently, regional and international cooperation are indispensable to address challenges.

13.       We declare our readiness to engage in sincere, result-oriented cooperation at all levels, which will not just help Afghanistan, but will also be beneficial to security and prosperity in the region as a whole. We welcome the central and impartial role of the United Nations, in line with the Security Council mandate, and we recognize the important role of the Organization for Islamic Cooperation, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, the Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia, the Economic Cooperation Organization, the Eurasian Economic Union, the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, the United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia, and the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation in strengthening regional security and promoting regional cooperation. We welcome the participation of Afghanistan in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and in the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, as well as its application to obtain the status of observer state with the
Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
14.       Similarly, we also positively take note of those bilateral, trilateral and quadrilateral initiatives between Afghanistan and the regional countries that could contribute to the improvement of regional cooperation. We welcome and support all these mechanisms, organisations and processes that add value to regional dimension. We also welcome various efforts aimed at intensifying cooperation and dialogue between Afghanistan and regional countries, recognising the intertwined nature of various challenges faced by all countries in the region. Our regional cooperation vision is not intended to substitute them, but to build synergy between these efforts.

15.       These fundamental frameworks and principles of cooperation among countries are unequivocally pertinent in dealing with challenges. We note the value of a more coherent and structured approach to individual initiatives. We pledge to give strong emphasis and further impetus to the ongoing regional cooperation endeavours.
16.       With this understanding, based on the principles, including guarantees of territorial integrity, sovereignty and refraining from the threat or use of force to resolve disputes; guarantees for non-intervention in the internal affairs of other States; and peaceful settlement of disputes according to international law, stated in this document, we will endeavour to build confidence through broad ranging and effective Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), where appropriate and based on self-differentation basis, which may include, but not be limited to, the areas listed hereafter.

A) In the political and security field:

-- Enhanced cooperation for fighting terrorism, including through exchange of information;
-- Participation in Civil Emergency Planning to assess risks and reduce vulnerability of the civil population to terrorism;
-- Enhancement of cooperation among Afghanistan and its immediate neighbours for effective border controls;
-- Creation or enhancement of conditions conducive to the voluntary and safe return of refugees, in a dignified and orderly manner;
-- Exchange of information regarding forces responsible for counter-terrorism operations and facilitate contacts among them as appropriate;
-- Co-operation and interaction among regional countries in the area of counter narcotics and the trafficking of illegal goods and lethal substance, and their precursors, including enhancing bilateral efforts to prevent illicit movement of personnel and material across international borders.
-- Development of joint guidelines for cooperation in the field of disaster management;
B) In the economic field:
-- Build, where appropriate, on the model of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement, ways to expand trade across the region;
-- Trade facilitation strategy - The development of a coherent strategy to develop a regionally coherent trade and border management;
-- Preferential Trade Agreement within the region without prejudice to existing trading agreements;
-- Establishment of databases and a system of data exchange in trade and economic spheres;
-- Improvement of the exchange of information on commercial opportunities and specific trading conditions;
-- Improvement in the provisions for the settlement of commercial disputes, including various forms of arbitration;
-- A strategy to encourage participation of the private sector in regional development programs, including through private sector-public sector joint ventures;
-- Exchange of information on development of international tourism and tourist infrastructure and assistance in establishing and strengthening contacts;
-- Exchange of information regarding suspicious financial transactions, illegal financial operations and assistance in establishing and strengthening contacts between appropriate authorities;
-- Facilitation of the development of co-operation in the various field of environment;
-- Improvement of business contacts and facilities;
-- Encourage the establishment of a framework for enhanced cooperation among Chambers of Commerce;
-- Training of personnel in various fields of economic activity;
-- The development of a coherent strategy to develop and maintain a regionally connecting infrastructure, with support from international partners;
-- Encouraging Afghanistan’s role as a land-bridge, connecting the region through cooperation and completion of bridges on trans-boundary rivers, roads and railway networks; in this connection, focusing on construction of new automobile bridges over the Panj River in Kokul and Ayvaj fields of Tajikistan and supporting the implementation of the project on a railway route from East, Central, South and West Asia and to the sea routes through Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan with existing Uzbekistan-Afghanistan railway being connected to a prospective Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Afghanistan railway, and supporting the implementation of the project on a railway route from Iran to Afghanistan, the Khaf-Herat Railway;
-- Co-operation on easier flow of energy resources within, from and across the region, especially with regard to electricity, minerals, oil and gas, including their exploitation and transit, through regional projects, such as TAPI, and CASA-1000 project which has to be implemented with a broader financial contribution, as well as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and the Islamic Development Bank;
-- Wider support for Tajikistan`s efforts to conduct the 5th Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan (RECCA V) which is planned to be held on March 26-27, 2012 in Dushanbe. Amongst other agenda items, the Conference will consider the proposal from Afghanistan and Tajikistan on enhancing trade connectivity along historical trade routes. On the margins of the RECCA V, we support the organization of a business forum and a forum of scientists and researchers.
-- Exploring the possibility of cooperation in the development of hydroelectric power and in the sphere of water management without prejudice to existing agreements;
-- Consider, wherever appropriate and mutually agreed, development of large-scale irrigation works without prejudice to existing agreements;
-- A more effective regional cooperation in the agricultural and rural fields;
-- The development of infrastructure around the main ports and linking them via road and railroad for shipment of goods and energy to and from Central Asia, South Asia, Eurasia and the Black Sea.
C) In the education field:
-- Setting up a structured regional education exchange programme with places reserved in universities for students from neighbouring States within the region;
Broadening cooperation and exchanges in the fields of education and science on a short or long-term basis;
-- Expansion of links between State institutions and non-governmental bodies whose activities are concerned with questions of education and science and including scientific exchanges, exchange of students, joint events;
-- Ensure that radical and hatred references are removed from education curriculum;
-- Reform the curricula that promote extremism.
-- Promotion of the role of mass media as a driver for democratic development and mutual understanding, and to spread messages of peace, harmony and tolerance;
-- Establishing a multi-disciplinary professional and technical training Center in Tajikistan which is aimed at preparing civilian specialists for the needs of the Afghanistan economy, with support of international community.

D) In the cultural field:

-- Joint projects aimed at disseminating information on various cultures and traditions in the region;
-- Co-operation in preserving valuable cultural, historical, archaeological and religious assets;
-- A common fight by all nations in the region against all forms and manifestation of violence;
-- A joint effort to promote the true nature of Islam as a religion of peace, tolerance and human accomplishment;
-- Promotion of inter-faith and intra-cultural dialogue.

E) In the legal field:

     -- Considering, where appropriate and on the basis of reciprocity, relaxation of visa regimes;
-- Considering relaxation of rules and restrictions at border crossings for legitimate travelers on the basis of reciprocal arrangements;
-- Promotion of law enforcement cooperation;

17.       Through the İstanbul Process, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening regional security and cooperation, including for the purpose of building a secure and stable Afghanistan. To that end, we have decided to redouble and better coordinate our efforts through bilateral channels and existing multilateral frameworks and future meetings at Ministerial and technical level. The Istanbul Process will be developed and marked by consensus decision making of participating states.
18.       In this regard, we will continue to exchange views on ways and means to implement our decisions.
19.       As the first follow-up on the İstanbul Conference, we have decided to meet again at Ministerial level in Kabul in June 2012.
20.       The Kabul Ministerial meeting will be preceded by a preparatory meeting at technical level chaired by Afghanistan. To that effect, Afghanistan will circulate a concept paper by the end of January 2012, outlining the agenda of the meeting.
21.       Having stated the above, we recognise that the challenge we intend to meet remains considerable. But, through these confidence building measures, we are aiming at a new mindset of cooperation in the region.
22.       The ambitious objective of enhanced regional cooperation, with and around Afghanistan, will need to overcome many hurdles. However, the benefits for Afghanistan and its region will reward this ambition and be worth the endeavours.
23.       The participants to the İstanbul Conference wish to express their gratitude to the Republic of Turkey for the generous hospitality and commitment to promoting regional cooperation.

Adopted on 2 November 2011 by the ‘Heart of Asia’ Countries which consist of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of India, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Russian Federation, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia the Republic of Tajikistan, the Republic of Turkey, Turkmenistan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Welcomed and supported by the Commonwealth of Australia, Canada, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Republic of France, the Federal Republic of Germany, Republic of Italy, Japan, Norway, Republic of Poland, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States as well as the United Nations, Economic Cooperation Organization, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, Organization for Islamic Cooperation, the European Union, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia.

Photo - foreıgn mınıster of Pakistan at Istanbul Conference on Afghanısta​n

Foreign Minister of Pakistan Ms Hina Rabbani Khar attending Regional Conference on Afghanistan at Istanbul on 2 November 2011.

Pakistan, Turkey agree to upgrade track for Gul Train

ISTANBUL Nov 1 (APP): The proposed Gul Train project took a step forward on Tuesday when the Presidents of Pakistan and Turkey agreed to further upgrade it so as to cover the distance between Ankara and Islamabad in just 11 days instead of 16 days. The project idea was first floated by President Zardari last year to enter into a joint venture for locomotive manufacture in Pakistan for the special cargo train service. Spokesperson to President Farhatulalh Babar said that the decision was taken during a special briefing on the proposed train project held soon after the delegation level talks between the two Presidents in Istanbul on the sidelines of the trilateral summit of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey.
It was also decided that after the successful upgradation of the existing track and whetting the appetite of private entrepreneurs, the second phase of the project be also launched.
The second phase would include laying of a entirely new railway track in Pakistan specially for super fast goods train running at over 150 kilometers per hour speed, he said.
The briefing was informed that a special logistics management company called TOBB had already been formed and experts from the two countries will meet next month in Pakistan to take the project further forward.
The two test runs of the train carried out during the last two months had shown that the trains covered the distance in 16 days and the project was very feasible. The test runs and the studies carried out thus far had also shown that the initial project feasibility was better than expected, the meeting was informed.
The meeting was informed that the project had been endorsed by the ECO High Level Expert Group meeting in Ankara last month and an informal working group had already been formed in Ankara for the purpose.
Farhatullah Babar said that it was also decided to convene an international conference in January 2012 on connectivity in Pakistan to raise awareness of the international private sector in the viability of the project and to attract entrepreneurs.
In an intervention the Turkish President Abdullah Gul proposed that the 11 day Ankara-Islamabad train proposal be finalized within six months. President Gul further said that he would be ready to give some more time for finalizing the 11-day proposal if the travel time could be further reduced to less than ten days between Ankara and Islamabad, Farhatullah Babar said.
President Zardari remarked that he envisaged the Gul Train opening up new vistas of communication, opening up hitherto inaccessible markets and boosting trade of the three countries of Pakistan, Iran and Turkey within the region and beyond.

Trilateral Summit starts in Istanbul

ISTANBUL, Nov 1 (APP): Trilateral Summit on Afghanistan being hosted by Turkey started here on Tuesday. Host of the summit Turkish President, Abdullah Gul, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Afghan President Hamid Karzai are leading the delegations of their respective countries. President Zardari is being assisted by Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, ISI Chief General Ahmed Shuja Pasha and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkey Muhammad Haroon Shaukat.

Trilateral MoU on Conduct of Mutual Exercises and Training Courses

Chief of Army Staff  of Pakistan Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Chief of Staff of Afghanistan Gen. Shah Mohammad Karimi and Chief of General Staff of Turkey Gen. Necdet Ozal signing a protocol  on Conduct of Mutual Exercises and Training Courses at Istanbul on 1st November 2011

Trilateral MoU on Training cooperation


ISLAMABAD Nov. (APP) Three important agreements, memoranda of understandings were signed by Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan following the conclusion of trilateral summit hosted by Turkish President Abdullah Gul here on Tuesday.
One agreement was Currency Swap between  Pakistan and Turkey which was signed by Governor State Bank Yaseen Anwar while Governor Central Bank of Turkey Dr. Erdem Basci on behalf of his country.
The important MoUs on Conduct of Mutual Exercises and Training Courses between the militaries of Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan and it was signed by Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani from Pakistan, General Necdet Ozal from Turkey and General Shah Muhammad Kairimi from Afghanistan.
The third agreement singed by three countries among their interior ministers was Protocol between three countries on Training Cooperation.
It was signed by Pakistan's Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Turkish Interior Minister Idress Naeem Shaheen and Afghan Interior Minister Bismillah Khan  Muhammadi.


Interior Ministers of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Turkey signing an on police training cooperation at Istanbul on 1 November 2011

Trilateral summit concludes with positive note to enhance cooperation to ensure peace and stability in region


ISTANBUL, Nov 1 (APP) The trilateral summit of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Turkey concluded in Istanbul on Tuesday on a positive note with three countries signing agreement and memoranda of understandings for cooperation in different areas and expressing willingness to join hands to build a combined partnership to ensure peace and security in the region.
The conference was hosted by Turkish President Abdulah Gul and it was attended by  President Asif Ali Zardari and Afghan President Hamid Karzai along with the military chiefs, foreign and interior ministers.
At the concluding of the trilateral summit, the three countries signed documents for cooperation at a ceremony witnessed by President Asif Ali Zardari, Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Turkish President Abdullah Gul.
Pakistan and Turkey signed an agreement for currency swap allowing businessmen and trading community to do trade in local currencies.  It was signed by Governors of State Bank of Pakistan and Central Bank of Turkey.
Interior Ministers of the three countries signed an MoU on training cooperation while Army Chiefs of the thee countries signed protocol for conduct of mutual exercises and training courses.
After the signing ceremony, the three Presidents told a news conference that as an outcome of the summit, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to evolve a cooperation mechanism for investigations into assassination of Prof. Burhanuddin Rabbani.
The leaders also discussed possibility of forming a Commission at Foreign Ministers' level to identify problems confronting the region, preparing a programme for their resolution and ensuring follow up.
President Zardari while addressing the press conference said three
countries, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Turkey have agreed to
re-energize their efforts in support of peace and reconciliation in
Afghanistan.
He said Pakistan attaches great importance to the Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey Trilateral Summit Process. Expressing his special appreciation to President Gul for Turkey’s valuable contribution and constructive role in the promotion of peace and stability in Afghanistan, President Zardari said it is a great contribution by Turkey to host this trilateral summit.
He said the three presidents, have had very open and productive discussions during their meeting today. The President said, “Along with Afghanistan, Pakistan has also suffered immensely on account of terrorism. We, therefore, remain firm in our resolve to eliminate this menace.”
“We have also agreed to strengthen regional economic cooperation through this important trilateral process,” said the President in his remarks at the press conference.
Referring to the outcome of the trilateral summit, President Zardari said,  “We have signed between our three countries two important MoUs on cooperation between our respective Ministries of Interiors and our three militaries.”
Referring to bilateral relations with Turkey, President Zardari said, “We have signed a Currency Swap Arrangement with Turkey that should provide a boost to our bilateral commerce and trade.”
President Zardari thanked President Abdullah Gul and the Turkish people for the warm hospitality extended to him and members of his delegation. The President also expressed sympathy and solidarity with the Government and people of Turkey on the recent earthquake and said that Pakistan offered assistance to Turkey but President Gul said they are fully prepared to handle this crisis.
Replying to a question, the President said since democratic government came into power it has covered miles in improving the bilateral relations with Afghanistan. He said through this trilateral process process, both countries engaged each other and had more interaction and there has been improvement in the bilateral relations of two countries.
President Asif Ali Zardari said eventually the world community has realized that there has to be a regional solution of the issue and the region has to take the responsibility.
He said, “Distant friends, however, well-intentioned they might be, would not know our culture and traditions” adding “Turkey is better placed to guide us.”
The President expressed satisfaction that through the platform of the trilateral process, Pakistan and Turkey has been able to sign a currency swap agreement and the three countries have understood the necessity of inter-connectivity to get access to more markets. President Zardari said during the summit the three leaders had in-depth
discussions on how to bring peace to the region and to the world. He said the world today is heavily inter-dependent and no country whether big or small can remain in isolation.
President Zardari said Pakistan is ready to provided every possible support to both Turkey and Afghanistan whenever needed.
Replying to a question about utility of the trilateral process, President Zardari said the situation in the region is very complex and one must not expect quick results.
He pointed out that despite their ten year long stay in Afghanistan,the armies of the world could not solve the problem. He said Afghanistan has always been known as graveyard of emperors and this is an established fact since centuries.
President Zardari said, “Whenever we move forward some interest groups and non-state actors create hurdles in the peace process.”   He said,”Ever since assumption of power by a democratic government in Pakistan we have moved much towards improvement of relations with Afghanistan.
He said,”Some years back it was not possible for Presidents of Pakistan and Afghanistan to sit together but we have now met for the sixth time to discuss the issues involved.”
President Abdullah Gul of Turkey said the understanding between Pakistan and Afghanistan to evolve a mechanism for investigation of assassination of Prof. Rabbani is indication of confidence building between the two countries.
He said, “The trilateral process would continue as it is the only way forward for regional cooperation and we can fight problems of the region.”  The Turkish President expressed concern over incidents of terrorism both in Afghanistan and Pakistan and said these have led to loss of precious lives.
He said Pakistan is one of the countries that has suffered a lot due to terrorism and President Asif Ali Zardari also lost his spouse in a terrorist attack.  President Hamid Karzai while addressing the press conference said terrorism is affecting both Pakistan and Afghanistan and future of the youth.  He said the two countries should work sincerely together to eliminate the menace of terrorism.
Karzai said after assumption of power by President Zardari, Afghanistan and Pakistan has had numerous positive engagements but assassination of Prof. Rabbani created difficulties for the peace process. Asked to explain his remarks that talks should be held with Pakistan and not Taliban, the Afghan President said it was not possible to hold talks with Taliban who are suicider as one of the members of messenger of the peace talks became sucider bomber and killed former President Burhanuddin Rabbani.
He said, “We believe we should talk to Pakistan to find solution to the problem.”
Karzai said, “We can not keep talking to suicider bombers till we have address, telephone number and door to knock at.”

Turkey Pakistan Currency Swap agreement


Istanbul November 1, 2011. President Asif Ali Zardari and President Abdullah Gul today witnessed the signing of the currency swap agreement between the two countries that President Zardari described as quantum jump in promoting trade and business relations between the two countries and the opening of the door for similar agreements with several other countries in the region.
Spokesperson to the President Farhatullah Babar said that the agreement was inked by the governors of the state banks of the two countries as the two Presidents and a number of federal ministers from both countries witnessed.

He said that with the signing of the agreement the traders and businessmen of the two countries would be able to trade in their respective currencies obviating the need to look for dollars or other foreign currencies to do business.
The agreement was signed within a day of the two Presidents agreeing on Monday on the sidelines of the sixth trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey that it should be finalized within a week, he said.
Earlier in the day the two Presidents also decided to work closely for further reducing the train travel time from Ankara to Islamabad to eleven days from the previously envisaged 16 days and to hold an international conference in January 2012 on connectivity in Pakistan to attract international entrepreneurs for the project.
They also agreed to enter into a joint venture for locomotive manufacture in Pakistan for the special cargo train service, Farhatullah Babar said.


Governor State Bank of Pakistan Mr. Yasin Anwar and Governor State Bank of Turkey Dr. Erdem Başçı signing an MoU on Currency Swap at Istanbul on 1 November 2011.