36th anniversary of Soviet withdrawal marked

KABUL (Pajhwok): On the 36th anniversary of the Soviet forces' withdrawal from Afghanistan, the caretaker government states that invading forces should take heed and never again take steps against the freedom and independence of the Afghan people.

Today, February 14, marks the 36th anniversary of the withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan.

A statement from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), published by chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, called this day one of the proudest moments in the country's history and extended congratulations to its "Muslim and Mujahid brothers" on the occasion.

The statement, while referring to the withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan and the re-establishment of the IEA, emphasized that the desire for independence among Afghans remains strong, and they are firmly committed to protecting their religion.

Without naming any specific party, Mujahid stressed that lessons should be learned from the past century of invasions and the successful jihad in response.

The statement urges all Afghans to remain vigilant against any future conspiracies or plots and to follow the path of their ancestors by maintaining strong resolve and Islamic unity to protect their faith, beliefs, and sovereignty.

Thirty-six years ago, Soviet forces, after nearly a decade of war, were defeated in Afghanistan and left the country through the Hairatan port in the north in 1989.

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