Nawroz messages underline unity among Afghans

KABUL was greeted on Friday on the advent of Nawroz by several countries, which underlined the imperative of peace and unity.

Most of the congratulatory messages called on the Afghans to work together to resolve the political crisis, triggered by an election row between President Ashraf Ghani and Dr. Abdullah.

In a video message on Thursday evening, President Ashraf Ghani wished the nation a happy new solar year. Unity among the people was vital to peace, he said.

NATO Senior Civilian Representative Nicholas Kay said: “My hope this Nawroz is that Afghan people will have their wishes come true. They wish to see their leaders unite themselves and the country in the interests of peace and fighting the coronavirus.”

He urged the Taliban to have a humanitarian pause in the combat in respect for the wishes of the Afghan people. Unity will help the country fight the coronavirus.

US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad asked the top Afghan politicians to reach an agreement on installing an inclusive government.

The best gift the Afghan leaders could give their country in the new solar year is an agreement on an inclusive government to end the political crisis, according to Khalilzad.

He also urged the bickering leaders and the Taliban, to work together to contain the COVID-19 spread and take care of the people.

British Ambassador Alison Blake said the world was facing an unprecedented challenge. “We need to come together and put aside political differences to tackle it.”

The India embassy in Kabul wished Afghans a happy and prosperous Nawroz. In a tweet, it asked the Afghans to take precautions to avoid COVID-19.

Similarly, Canadian Ambassador Dave Metcalfe said this Nawroz offered a special meaning to all, with prospects for peace looking within reach.

He said: “Canada proudly supports efforts of Afghans for bringing positive change in the country and who fight tirelessly to build prosperity and advance equal rights for every member of society.”

EU ambassador in Kabul, Pierre Mayaudon, wished a prosperous new year for Afghans and said unity was crucial in the current circumstances.

“Peace has never been so close but for this peace to correspond to your aspirations, to be a peace of freedom and dignity for all Afghans, it is absolutely crucial that you are united...”

The number of COVID-19 cases in Afghanistan rose to 24 on Friday when two more individuals tested positive. Of 390 suspected cases, 24 have tested positive.

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