ANKARA: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan's strong and sincere commitment for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan through an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process.

“Afghanistan today is at a defining moment in its history. This is a time for all Afghans to come together, make peace and rebuild their country,” said the prime minister.

Addressing a joint press conference in Ankara after the 8th trilateral summit hosted by Turkish President Abdullah Gul, leaders of Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan expressed their 'satisfaction' over the outcome of the summit, held in an environment of 'fraternity'.

During the press conference Prime Minister Sharif hoped that the Afghan people would overcome all the challenges with resilience and perseverance and Pakistan would continue to facilitate the peace process for a peaceful Afghanistan.

“Together we are working to build a new chapter in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations,” he commented and deeply appreciated Turkey's support for building sustainable peace in the heart of Asia.

This was not only the thematic focus of this summit, but indeed the crux of their collective efforts, he added.

The prime minister said his government would continue its sincere efforts to promote good neighbourly ties with Afghanistan.

“It is also clear that such common challenges are best resolved through common endeavours at the regional and international levels. Commonality of purpose creates new opportunities,” he added.

Nawaz Sharif said the three leaders had extensive exchanges during the summit.

“We are very pleased with this outcome and would remain constructively engaged to see our Afghan brothers succeed and thrive in the months and years ahead.”

Describing Turkey as his second home, the prime minister extended his profound thanks to the Turkish government and people for their warm welcome and gracious hospitality.

“Pakistan and Turkey are bound in a fraternal relationship that has few parallels in inter-state relations. Our strategic partnership is growing in leaps and bounds,” the prime minister said.

He praised the contributions by Turkish President Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Erdogan in giving a robust character to the bilateral cooperation.

The three countries reaffirmed their resolve to continue collective efforts and enhanced cooperation to ensure sustainable peace and security in the region.