KABUL: President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani has termed the recent visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Afghanistan as an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.

This was stated by President Ashraf Ghani while addressing the 19th Ministerial conference of Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation virtually held on Monday.

Ashraf Ghani said that the visit has enhanced prospects for regional integration.

In his remarks on the occasion, Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtyar reiterated the importance of regional connectivity, not only through road network but also through rail, aviation and ports for unleashing trade and tourism potential in the region.

He said the present government in Pakistan is facilitating the private sector for increased investment.

Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan had directed to take practical steps for the promotion of trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, besides protecting borders.

The Prime Minister said his government believes in independent, but secured borders. He had directed to establish a special division for border management system in the interior ministry under the supervision of additional secretary.

He had instructed all the concerned departments to ensure the timely sharing of information and data. NNI