Taliban violence outrages world: Foreign missions

KABUL (Pajhwok): The EU Delegation and diplomatic missions on Sunday denounced targeted killings and kidnappings in the country.

The condemnation came in a joint statement from the EU Delegation and diplomatic missions of Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, NATO’s senior civilian representative, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the UK and the US.

The continuation of assassinations, kidnappings and destruction of vital infrastructure directly harmed the Afghans, they said.

The statement added: “The violence is targeted at civil society, judicial, media, religious, medical and civilian government representatives who are essential to a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan.”

According to the joint statement the Taliban are responsible for most of the targeted violence. Their attacks undermine state institutions and contribute to an insecure environment in which terrorist and criminal groups are able to freely operate.

The government was urged to more actively and transparently investigate these attacks to identify those who instigate and carry out violence against the population. This would help bring the perpetrators to justice.

It said: “The international community has invested heavily in energy, food security, water resources and road infrastructure for the benefit of the Afghan people.”

The statement added: “We condemn the ongoing destruction of vital infrastructure, including digging up roads, destroying cell towers, and blowing up energy stations by the Taliban.”

The statement said that the Taliban must understand that their violent, destructive actions outrage the world and must cease if peace was to come to Afghanistan.

“We are standing side by side with those who are committed to bringing about an end to the conflict through an inclusive political settlement that ensures this country remains sovereign, united and democratic, at peace with itself and its neighbors…

“We continue to be steadfast in our resolve to assist the people of Afghanistan in achieving peace, justice, and development. We expect the Taliban to demonstrate its support for the people of Afghanistan by ending the violence, stopping the destruction of vital infrastructure, and committing to a sustainable peace, for the benefit of all Afghans.”

Taliban have not yet commented regarding the EU’s statement, but the movement has previously rejected such claims.

pr/mud

Visits: 114