Afghanistan call for emergency session of UNSC

KABUL (Pajhwok): Foreign Minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar and his Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar have discussed escalating violence, widespread human rights violation by Taliban and foreign terrorist groups’ operations in Afghanistan.

During a telephone conversation, Atmar and Jaishankar stressed the need for a special session of the UN Security Council on Afghanistan. India currently holds the rotating presidency of the UNSC.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Atmar referred to the unprecedented increase in Taliban's brutal attacks on the Afghan people, which have resulted in the killing of scores of civilians and displacement of thousands of people.

He highlighted the war crimes committed by the Taliban in their recent attacks carried out in collusion with foreign fighters and terrorist groups in Afghanistan

In a statement from the ministry, the minister slammed the rebel attacks as flagrant violations of international humanitarian law and warned of catastrophic ramifications.

Given the catastrophic consequences of the Afghan war for regional stability, security and prosperity, he told Jaishankar about Kabul’s suggestion regarding convening an emergency UN Security Council meeting on the situation in Afghanistan.

Atmar particularly underlined an immediate cessation of violence and the success of ongoing peace negotiations in Doha, the statement added.

Jaishankar expressed India’s deep concern over the escalation of violence, insecurity and explicit human rights violations by the Taliban and other terrorists in Afghanistan.

Jaishankar called the holding of the UN Security Council session important for the immediate cessation of human rights abuses and establishment of lasting peace in Afghanistan and the region.

He assured Atmar of his country's commitment to reviewing Afghanistan's proposal and the necessary consultations.

The two sides also discussed the agenda and the level of participation in the upcoming meetings on the Afghan peace process in Doha.

sa/mud