Russia, China Achieve Full Understanding In Matters Related To Afghanistan And Anti-terrorist Measures

Russian-Chinese consultations held in Beijing helped the sides achieve"100% rapprochement" in their positions concerning terrorism and post-conflict Afghan settlement, announced Russian deputy foreign minister Alexander Losyukov on Friday after completing negotiations with Chinese deputy foreign ministers Liu Guchang and Wan Yi. Consultations showed that "our positions concerning these matters fully coincide," noted Losyukov. "When it comes to Central Asia and the Afghan problem, the Chinese are obviously eager to collaborate with us, which means we have a chance to handle Afghan settlement either jointly or in parallel directions." According to the diplomat, Russia intends to activate consultations with China's close partner, Pakistan. China and Russia have a similar view of the parameters of post-conflict Afghan settlement, reported Losyukov, adding that the sides had agreed to "join efforts to push for a wide international consensus on the issue and for the prospect of a neutral and friendly Afghanistan." They also agreed to join efforts to "eliminate the terrorist and drug threats emanating from Afghanistan and prepare ground for an Afghan government uniting different political forces and nationalities." Both China and Russia believe that these conditions will help Afghanistan develop normally and restore its economic and social infrastructures in the interests of its population, stressed Losyukov.