Afghanistan's Haneef Atmar Asks China To Help Establish A ‘Mountain Brigade’

https://www.tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan/nsa-asks-china-help-establish-%E2%80%98mountain-brigade%E2%80%99

National Security Adviser Haneef Atmar has wrapped up a three-day official visit to China where he held talks with a number of high-ranking officials, including China’s Vice President Wang Qishan.

Atmar also met with Li Zuocheng, the Chinese Army Chief of Staff, and discussed a range of issues, including security and military relations and cooperation between Afghanistan and China.

The national security advisor said in order to monitor and avoid terrorist activities in the mountainous areas on the border with China, “there is a need to establish an Afghan mountain bridge and requested China's security leadership to equip and support the establishment of mountains forces.”

In addition, Atmar reportedly also insisted on the start of the second round of bilateral military cooperation dialogue between Afghanistan and China as soon as possible. He also urged the Chinese chief of army staff to visit Afghanistan.

Atmar also meanwhile met with Wang Yi, China’s foreign minister, and discussed China's constructive and vital role in the Afghan peace process, bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, which will be held in June.

Minister Wang Yi said China considers Afghanistan a key neighbor. He also reaffirmed China's continued support and long term relationship with Afghanistan, Atmar tweeted late Friday.