Kazakh delegation joined meeting of International Contact Group on Afghanistan
The meeting which was attended by the representatives from more than 40 countries discussed the important issues related to the further development of Afghanistan. There were analyzed common approaches to achieve international consensus on the long-term stability and development of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, discussed the civilian aspects of the transition process, long-term engagement of the international community in the reconstruction of Afghanistan as well as regional cooperation.
It has been noted that Afghanistan enters an important historical period due to the completion of the International Security Assistance Force mission. The major part of the country’s territory is already under the control of Afghan authorities.
Thus, the country’s and the international community’s efforts to consolidate this trend are highly appreciated. Forces of the international coalition withdrawal should not be accepted as a sign of weakening of world attention towards Afghanistan. It should be a signal to all the healthy forces of the country to move to a new phase of peaceful development.
The participants of the meeting noted the role of Kazakhstan in the reconstruction of Afghanistan. International Conference on Afghanistan in Istanbul Process which has taken place in April the current year in Almaty is of high importance.
It bears to remind that Kazakhstan adopted a special plan for Afghanistan in 2007 in frame of which young Afghan citizens to be involved in a program of training 1,000 civilian professionals. Each year Kazakhstan provides free technical assistance to Afghanistan. Transport and social infrastructure rehabilitation is carried out with the implementation of Kazakhstani funds. Kazakhstan intends to continue the contribution of peaceful life restoration in Afghanistan emphasizing the social and educational programs and projects as well as the provision of humanitarian assistance.
The International Contact Group on Afghanistan was founded in 2009. The group comprises of representatives from 50 countries and International delegations including 15 countries with predominantly Muslim population.