China’s representative at the UN Security Council called on the Taliban to reopen secondary schools to girls. He said that the fundamental rights of the Afghan people, including access to education, must be respected.
Speaking at Monday’s Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, the Chinese envoy said the UN secretary-general’s annual report showed that Afghanistan had faced restrictions on education for girls above sixth grade for a fifth consecutive year.
He said the Afghan authorities should take meaningful steps to ensure that girls have access to education and employment opportunities.
The Chinese representative added that while Afghanistan’s overall situation remains relatively stable, challenges persist in the fight against terrorism.
He said the international community should adopt a more coordinated approach towards Afghanistan and continue maintaining pragmatic engagement with the Taliban.
According to the envoy, declining international assistance, the large-scale return of displaced people and the crisis in the Middle East could contribute to tensions and instability in Afghanistan.
He noted that less than 20 per cent of the humanitarian funding required for Afghanistan has been secured, leaving many Afghans vulnerable to hunger and disease.
The Chinese representative also said the UN Security Council should facilitate travel and official engagements for Taliban officials.
Source: Afghanistan International
