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Violence and International Engagement in Afghanistan: Recent Developments

Last week, concerns over women’s rights in Afghanistan were raised by international organizations, which the Islamic Emirate dismissed as unfounded. The UNAMA head emphasized that engagement with the global community is the IEA’s responsibility. Various violent incidents resulted in ten deaths and three injuries across the country. Ongoing efforts to establish international relations and combat drug-related issues were also focal points of discussion.

Last week, significant incidents in Afghanistan drew concern from international organizations regarding women’s rights, which the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) dismissed as groundless. The UNAMA chief indicated that the responsibility for engagement with the international community lies with the IEA, which Kabul stated it has already fulfilled. Meanwhile, Germany is exploring ways to establish productive engagement with the IEA amidst growing global concerns about women’s rights.

Throughout various parts of the country, 10 fatalities and three injuries occurred last week due to multiple incidents. Armed thieves in Paktia killed a guard and injured another during a robbery at a currency market. Personal tragedies included familial homicides in Kunduz and Nangarhar, while clashes in Maidan Wardak and inheritance disputes in Farah also resulted in multiple deaths. These casualty figures stem from Pajhwok Afghan News reports, though some incidents may remain unreported.

In a briefing to the United Nations Security Council, Roza Otunbayeva, head of UNAMA, mentioned that it is incumbent upon the Islamic Emirate to take initiative for international engagement. She noted that the Islamic Emirate must respect international obligations, which not only benefits political progress but also the Afghan populace. The deputy spokesman for the Islamic Emirate responded that Afghanistan has made substantial efforts to establish international links but faces obstacles from certain countries.

Additionally, international relations were reaffirmed during a meeting between Oman’s Foreign Minister and Afghanistan’s counterpart. Bruno Kahl, representing the German Federal Intelligence Service, stated that they are deliberating on how to engage with Afghanistan’s current government, while dialogue regarding Afghan issues continues among members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and Turkey.

On International Women’s Day, various organizations raised alarms regarding women’s rights, which the IEA refuted as politically motivated. The UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization highlighted that around 1.5 million girls in Afghanistan currently lack educational opportunities, a figure that could rise significantly by 2030. Meanwhile, Saiful Islam Khayber, spokesman for the promotion of virtue, defended the IEA’s stance, asserting that claims of women’s rights violations are being utilized as a tool for political pressure.

The IEA continues to assert its commitment to safeguarding women’s rights as defined by Islamic Sharia. Last week, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime reported a rise in opium prices, indicating significant reductions in drug processing and trafficking in Afghanistan. Mufti Abdul Matin Qani, from the Ministry of Interior, affirmed the IEA’s dedication to combating narcotics, emphasizing progress in addressing illicit drug activities.

Following a militant attack on a passenger train in Balochistan, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs alleged connections with Afghanistan. The IEA’s deputy spokesman categorically rejected these allegations, urging Pakistan to prioritize its security concerns rather than casting blame.

Moreover, Italy has committed 3.5 million euros in aid to support Afghan refugees, with UNHCR warning that neglecting Afghanistan could lead to severe repercussions, including mass migration and regional instability.

In summary, the past week highlighted critical issues in Afghanistan, including the ongoing concern for women’s rights, which the IEA has consistently dismissed. Despite international pressures, developments in Afghan relations with other nations remain uncertain, with the IEA asserting its commitment to international obligations. Furthermore, incidences of violence and fatalities paint a grim picture of the socio-political landscape, emphasizing the need for continuous global attention and support for humanitarian efforts in the region.

Original Source: pajhwok.com

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