Emphasizing that the current situation in Afghanistan has many challenges, Ambassador TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations Said there are some opportunities.
India on Monday said that as a neighbor of Afghanistan, the current situation in the war-torn country is of “great concern” to it and hopes for an inclusive system that represents all sections of society, underlining that ” Wider representation will help the system gain greater acceptability and legitimacy.
The United Nations Security Council, which is currently chaired by India for the month of August, met for the second time in a span of 10 days to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.
India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, “In a short span of time, we have seen a dramatic change in the situation. We have also seen a very unfortunate scene at the Hamad Karzai International Airport in Kabul.”
Making a statement in his national capacity at the UNSC meeting, Tirumurti said, “As a neighbor of Afghanistan, as a friend of our people, the current situation in the country is of great concern to us in India.”
He said it is time for the international community, in particular the Security Council, to act and ensure an immediate end to violence and to prevent any potential crisis and minimize its consequences.
As the situation in Afghanistan deteriorates further, Tirumurti said Afghans are concerned about whether their right to live with dignity will be respected.
“There are many unanswered questions. We hope that the situation will soon stabilize and the parties concerned will address the humanitarian and security issues.
“We also hope that there is an inclusive system that represents all sections of Afghan society. The voices of Afghan women, the aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities should be respected. A broader representation system should be more acceptable and Will help in gaining legitimacy,” Tirumurthy said.
Emphasizing that the current situation in Afghanistan has many challenges, he said that there are some opportunities.
“If there is zero-tolerance in all forms and manifestations of terrorism and it is ensured that the territory of Afghanistan is not used by terrorist groups to threaten or attack any other country, then Afghanistan’s neighbors and regions are safe.” will feel.” Tirumurti said giving a small indirect reference to Pakistan.
He said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also “clearly outlined it now”. In his address to the council, Guterres said the international community must unite to ensure that Afghanistan is never again used as a forum or safe haven for terrorist organizations.
Tirumurti noted with concern that there is widespread panic among people and that women and children are in danger in Afghanistan. “Incidents of firing have been reported from the city including the airport. While the security situation remains uncertain, a serious humanitarian crisis is emerging. We have heard urgent appeals from all parties including the Secretary General.
“Afghanistan has already seen enough bloodshed in the past. The time has come for the international community to unite, rise above any partisan interests, to support the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to unite. It’s time to come along. Live in peace and respect,” said the Indian envoy.
He highlighted that India has made significant contribution to the development of the country in recent years. In this context, Indian development projects have been undertaken in the important sectors of power, water, roads, health, education, agriculture and capacity building.
“India’s emphasis has been on the welfare and well being of the people of Afghanistan. Before the current crisis unfolded, India had development projects underway in each of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces,” Tirumurti said, adding that there is a need to continue to support the strong work of the UN mission in Afghanistan and ensure their security.
“We call on parties concerned to maintain law and order, ensure the safety and security of all concerned, including UN, diplomatic and consular personnel, and to comply with human rights and international humanitarian law in all circumstances in Afghanistan,” he said.
Read also | China expects Taliban to establish ‘open, inclusive’ Islamic government; Terrorist groups not allowed
Read also | We all must ensure that Afghanistan never becomes a haven for terrorism: US at UNSC
.