Under the auspices of the C5+1 regional diplomatic platform, representatives from Central Asian nations Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and the United States convened in Astana, Kazakhstan on July 27, 2023. The purpose of this meeting was to address the evolving situation in Afghanistan and its implications for regional stability, security, and cooperation. The U.S. department of state's joint statement shows that the participants underscored the significance of collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Central Asian countries to support Afghanistan's progress while ensuring the broader safety and resilience of the region.
Key Discussion Points
Support for an Inclusive, Sovereign, and Stable Afghanistan: The attendees emphasized the importance of a united, sovereign, stable, and self-reliant Afghanistan that respects the rights of all its citizens, including women and girls. The participants recognized the need for ongoing international support to achieve this goal.
Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism: The delegates highlighted the necessity of preventing Afghanistan's territory from being used as a base for terrorist activities. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing cooperation to counter trafficking in persons, arms, and illegal drugs, thus curbing the spread of terrorism and violent extremism across borders.
Humanitarian and Economic Assistance: The attendees acknowledged the severe humanitarian and economic challenges facing Afghanistan. They emphasized the importance of a coordinated international response that addresses both dimensions comprehensively. The participants stressed the need for humanitarian actors to have unhindered access to all Afghans in need, in accordance with established humanitarian principles.
Inclusive Political Process and Dialogue: The representatives reaffirmed that achieving a stable, economically viable, and peaceful Afghanistan requires the full and meaningful participation of all its citizens, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion. They emphasized the need for an inclusive political dialogue that focuses on accountable and representative governance structures.
Freedom of Movement and Connectivity: The participants expressed their support for freedom of movement within Afghanistan, particularly for women. They also emphasized the importance of regional connectivity and transit trade through energy infrastructure and transportation networks, fostering stronger ties between Central Asia and South Asia via Afghanistan.
Addressing the Drug Issue: While acknowledging the decrease in opium poppy cultivation, the attendees expressed concerns about continued opiate exports and synthetic drug production in Afghanistan. They recognized the shared interest of all regional countries in combating drug-related challenges and promoting a drug-free Afghanistan.
Education and Regional Connectivity: The delegates affirmed their commitment to supporting higher education institutions in Central Asia that serve students from across the region, including Afghanistan. They recognized education as a means of enhancing cross-cultural understanding and regional connectivity.
UN's Role and Political Presence in Afghanistan: The representatives expressed their support for the United Nations' efforts in Afghanistan and welcomed the UN Secretary General's initiative to convene international stakeholders. They highlighted the importance of the UN's political presence in promoting responsible governance, reconciliation processes, human rights, essential services, and sustainable socio-economic conditions in Afghanistan.
Photo: Astana hosts the meeting of the special session on Afghanistan in the C5 + 1 format at the level of special representatives Source: UzDaily
The C5+1 meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan, served as a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration among Central Asian nations and the United States on the Afghanistan issue. The participants collectively stressed the importance of supporting Afghanistan's journey towards stability, peace, and prosperity, while also recognizing the interconnected nature of security and cooperation in the broader region. The commitments made in this meeting signal a shared determination to work towards a more secure, stable, and prosperous future for Afghanistan and its neighboring countries.
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