McKinley stresses representation in peace talks

KABUL’s representation in the peace negotiations was of utmost importance.

US Ambassador P. Michael McKinley’s statement came at a time when relations between Kabul and Islamabad had recently improved and the ground for peace talks between Taliban and the Afghan government had also been paved.

However, Taliban had not yet formally confirm to kick-start negotiations process with the Afghan government.

Talking to female reporters in Kabul on Sunday on eve of Women International Day, McKinley said that his government support peace talks between the Afghan government and Taliban.

But he noted that women’s representation in the peace process was important. Women rights were the top priority of his government, he reiterated.

On the occasion, McKinley conveyed the message of John Kerry, the US secretary of State in which he had said: “Stability in the world could be achieved if people respect women rights.”

The ambassador also mentioned about progress in women’s access to politics, their economic promotion, improvements in education.

He said the new government should facilitate women’s access to education, health services and improve their economic condition in the next five years. The US embassy’s public relation department would launch a public awareness campaign to highlight women rights, he added.

A hundred projects in politics, education, health and economy have been launched in the country by the US with the support of relevant organs of Afghan government, he recalled.

The US government has provided facilities for Afghan women to seek higher education up to master degree in US universities, he added.

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