Envoys urge Taliban to tackle terrorism, restore women’s rights

GENEVA: Special envoys and representatives for Afghanistan from G7+ nations convened this week to address the escalating challenges facing the country. In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the envoys called on the Taliban to intensify counterterrorism efforts, reverse oppressive policies against women, and commit to inclusive governance to stabilise the nation.

Representatives from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Canada, Japan, and Switzerland, along with other stakeholders, participated in the discussions.

The group emphasised the need for urgent action to tackle Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis and to ensure regional security.

The envoys expressed grave concern over recent terrorist attacks in Kabul and the broader region, warning that terrorism remains a significant threat to Afghanistan’s security.

They acknowledged the Taliban’s limited actions against ISIS-K but stressed that more robust measures are needed to comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593.

“Some terrorist organisations continue to enjoy safe haven in Afghanistan, planning and executing both internal and cross-border strikes,” the statement read. The envoys called on the Taliban to take concrete steps to eliminate these threats, which they warned could destabilise not just Afghanistan but also neighbouring nations and the wider region.