At the outset, FM Muttaqi extended appreciation to the Deputy Head of UNAMA for expressing sympathy with the victims of the recent earthquakes, as well as for her condolences over the civilian casualties caused by Pakistan’s airstrikes in Khost and Kunar provinces.
Alluding to the two working groups under the Doha Process, FM Muttaqi stated that the cultivation of narcotics has been reduced to nearly zero, & that the Islamic Emirate has also taken the necessary measures to support the private sector, stressing that it is now time for the relevant parties to take further concrete steps towards progress.
Ms. Gagnon expressed sorrow over the deaths of women, children, & other civilians resulting from Pakistan’s bombardments in Khost & Kunar, emphasising that international laws must be observed & civilians must not be harmed.
Voicing concern about the closure of transit routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Ms. Georgette noted that thousands of tons of UNAMA’s food & nutritional aid remain stranded.
Assessing positively the work of the narcotics control & private-sector support working groups, Ms. Georgette proposed further joint cooperation in other areas under the framework of the Doha Process, adding that they are continuously engaged with international donors to create additional facilities for cooperation & assistance to Afghanistan.
