Special Correspondent
New York
Citing the threat posed by chronic terrorist violence in Afghanistan, delegates commended fresh progress in peace talks and exchanged views on the best way to help the nation move into a new era of peace and stability. Meanwhile, the General Assembly adopted, by a recorded vote, its annual resolution on the situation in the country.
Adopting the resolution, “The situation in Afghanistan” (document A/75/L.45)A/75/L.45), by a recorded vote of 130 in favour to 1 against (Russian Federation) with three abstentions (Belarus, China, Pakistan), the General Assembly pledged its continued support to the country’s Government and people as they rebuild a stable, secure and economically self-sufficient State. Also by the text, the Assembly reiterated serious concern about the continuing high level of violence and the security situation, stressing the need to continue to address these destabilizing threats caused by terrorist groups and their affiliates. Pakistan has commended fresh progress in the ongoing talks in Doha aimed at ending the conflict in Afghanistan, but warned against spoilers’ ploys to undermine efforts for a peaceful settlement in the war-torn country.
“Spoilers, from within or without, must not be allowed to subvert the success of these negotiations and prevent a comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan,” Ambassador Munir Akram told the UN General Assembly on Thursday.
“The machinations of such spoilers must be defeated,” he said during a debate on the situation in Afghanistan.
Expressing concern at the high level of violence in Afghanistan, Ambassador Akram said that Pakistan shares the international community’s determination not to allow Afghan soil to be used by Al-Qaeda, ISIL/Da’esh or other groups to threaten or attack other countries. “Terrorism has had a devastating impact on Afghanistan and its neighbouring countries,” the Pakistan envoy said.
At the outset, he said that Pakistan and Afghanistan are linked by unbreakable bonds and their destinies are intertwined. Pakistan has shared Afghanistan’s trials and tribulations and hopes to share its joy when peace is established. “A peaceful and stable Afghanistan is indispensable for peace and stability in the region and beyond,” Ambassador Akram told the 193-member Assembly.
With the intra-Afghan talks in Doha rekindling hopes for peace, the Pakistani envoy said it is time for Afghanistan’s leaders to seize this historic opportunity and work constructively towards an inclusive and comprehensive settlement, without outside influence or interference.
“Pakistan has walked with the international community and our Afghan brothers and sisters on the path to peace, encouraging reduction in violence and urging dialogue and negotiations,” Ambassador Akram said. “The commencement of Intra-Afghan negotiations is the outcome of our combined efforts,” he said.
