ISLAMABAD, (TDI): The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Friday emphasized the need for Afghanistan to take concrete steps to combat terrorism, reiterating its stance that Afghan soil must not be used to threaten or attack any other country.
In a press statement issued by UNSC President Linda Thomas-Greenfield (United States), the Council highlighted that terrorism in all its forms poses a grave threat to both Afghanistan’s and global peace and security.
The statement reaffirmed the demand that Afghan territory should not be used for planning, financing, or carrying out terrorist activities, harboring or training terrorists, or supporting such operations in any capacity. It underscored that no Afghan group or individual should aid terrorists targeting any nation.
Combating Terrorism
The UNSC called on the Taliban to enhance their efforts to address terrorism, specifically against individuals, groups, and entities designated by the Council under various resolutions, including 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011), and 2253 (2015).
The statement also addressed the link between narcotics and terrorism. The UNSC members reaffirmed their commitment to combat the illicit cultivation, production, and trafficking of drugs originating from Afghanistan.
They noted that the proceeds of drug trafficking continue to finance terrorist activities, threatening both regional and international security. The Council urged support for sustainable alternative livelihoods to reduce Afghanistan’s reliance on opium cultivation.
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The Council underscored the critical role of dialogue and consultation among Afghan stakeholders, regional actors, and the global community. It highlighted the significance of the Doha Process and other platforms to facilitate political solutions, peace, and stability in Afghanistan and beyond. Referring to Resolution 2721 (2023), the UNSC called for a comprehensive discussion on Afghanistan’s situation.
Developing a Political Roadmap
The UNSC stressed the importance of formulating a political roadmap that includes all relevant stakeholders. Such a roadmap aims to establish an Afghanistan that is peaceful, stable, and fully reintegrated into the international community while meeting its global obligations.
Addressing Multifaceted Challenges
Reaffirming their support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and its people, the UNSC acknowledged the numerous challenges the country faces, including humanitarian, economic, and social crises, security issues, and narcotics trafficking. It stressed the need for a holistic approach to tackle these issues.
Women and Girls’ Rights
The Council expressed deep concern over the Taliban’s restrictive policies on women and girls, describing their impact on Afghanistan’s peace, stability, and development as profoundly negative. Referring to Resolution 2681 (2023), the UNSC emphasized the importance of ensuring women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in Afghan society.
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It urged the Taliban to reverse policies such as the “vice and virtue” directive and the suspension of women’s access to education, including in medical institutions. Positive developments in these areas are essential to rebuilding trust with the international community.
Economic and Humanitarian Concerns
The UNSC voiced alarm over Afghanistan’s dire economic and humanitarian crisis, including funding gaps and obstacles to aid delivery. It called for immediate measures to address these challenges and support Afghanistan’s recovery.
The Council reiterated its long-term commitment to Afghanistan’s people and its determination to address the country’s interconnected challenges, paving the way for a stable and self-reliant future.
