ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Afghanistan faced similar challenges and their futures were inextricably linked, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said while meetingAfghanAmbassador Dr Hazrat Omar Zakhilwal at the Parliament House on Wednesday.

Mr Sadiq said that Pakistan and Afghanistan were partners in their struggle to bring about peace and stability, consolidation of democracy, and human development in the region and beyond. Highlighting historical, cultural and religious commonalities between the two countries, Mr Sadiq said Pakistan and Afghanistan were also confronted with similar challenges which shaped their strategic relationship.

ReiteratingDrZakhilwal`s stance on how to mend the trust deficit between the two neighbours, Mr Sadiq stressed the need for comprehensive engagement and dialogue to build a harmonious relationship.

Dr Zakhilwal reiterated that Pakistan and Afghanistan were inseparable as they shared the same challenges and were determined to start a new chapter of cordial bilateral relations.-APP