KABUL (Pajhwok): The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Wednesday said that continuing peace talks and conflict simultaneously was not rational, asking warring parties to stop targeting civilians and public facilities.
Robert Mardini, ICRC representative in Afghanistan, told a conference here that in addition to the conflict, the Afghan people were also suffering from threats posed by Covid19.
He said the Afghans were in need of the international community’s assistance as they were under multiple crises.
“ICRC is operating in Afghanistan since last 33 years for providing protection facilities to people and will continue its efforts in the country”, he said.
Mardini, who was appointed to Afghanistan three days ago, have met representatives of the conflict sides, ordinary people, civil society activists, influential figures and others.
He expressed concern over attacks on civilians and public facilities and said practical steps should be taken for protection of people and public areas.
“Peace talks from one side and conflict on the other side are not irrational, engaged parties should take action for reducing violence and stop targeting civilians and public facilities,” he added.
Mardini asked the negotiating teams of the intra-Afghan talks to observe all human rights during their talks and said reduction in violence could help people achieve their rights.
He said that ICRC could not press the conflict parties to reduce violence, but the organization was trying to convince the sides to deescalate the situation for protection of civilians and observation of public services.
“ICRC understands concerns regarding Afghanistan and the organization would share them in the upcoming Geneva conference”, he announced.
Mardini hoped the international community would pledge financial support to Afghanistan in the coming Geneva summit.
mds/ma
