The Taliban's interim administration in Afghanistan has called on the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to invite Afghan representatives to its future meetings. This request comes after the SCO held its 23rd summit, during which Afghanistan was extensively discussed and the member states emphasised the importance of establishing an inclusive government in the country.
The Taliban representative, Suhail Shaheen, expressed the view that the interim administration in Kabul should be included in SCO meetings, as the issues being discussed directly concern Afghanistan. Shaheen highlighted the need for dialogue and understanding, suggesting that explaining the situation from their perspective would be essential.
The SCO joint statement issued at the summit emphasised the significance of resolving the situation in Afghanistan for the safety and stability of the region. It called for the establishment of an independent, neutral, united, democratic, and peaceful state, free from terrorism, war, and drugs. The SCO member states recognized the evolving humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and pledged to continue assisting the Afghan people.
It is worth noting that the interim Afghan administration was not invited to the summit, according to Shaheen. The Taliban, who returned to power in August 2021, are still seeking international recognition. Afghanistan already holds observer status within the SCO, which was founded in 2001.
In a separate announcement, Afghanistan's interim Foreign Ministry expressed appreciation for the SCO's statement but emphasised the necessity of inviting Kabul to the organisation's upcoming meeting in Kazakhstan. The ministry asserted that Afghanistan has the rightful claim to participate in the summit as an observer.
According to the ministry's statement, Afghanistan views its exclusion from the forum as an "obstacle" to achieving harmony, security, combating drug issues, facilitating humanitarian aid, and fostering economic integration within the region. The statement further highlighted the diverse representation within the Islamic Emirate, encompassing individuals from various linguistic, ethnic, and ideological backgrounds. It stated that understanding the true facts of the situation would lead to the resolution of member countries' concerns.
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