MOSCOW: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on Wednesday said that peace in Afghanistan is vital for stability in South Asia and that it would benefit all neighbouring nations. “Pakistan would support every step taken to establish peace in Afghanistan because it is essential for regional stability. We do not have hostile designs against any nation,” COAS said during meeting with Russian Chief of General Staff General Valery Vasilevich Gerasimov. The COAS added that Pakistan “wants to get out of the zerosum dynamics of Cold War era that is still prevalent in South Asia” and that the country will continue “working towards a cooperative regional framework based on sovereign equality and mutual progress through connectivity.” The Russian military chief commended Pakistan’s efforts and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. He added that Russia supports Pakistan’s efforts to establish peace in Afghanistan and that the country would also play a crucial rule to help stabilise Afghanistan. The two dignitaries also discussed matters pertaining regional security and mutual cooperation.