ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed hope that the new political set-up will work for peace and security in Afghanistan and address its people’s humanitarian needs.
In the first official comment on the government announced by the Taliban, Foreign Office spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmad in a statement said they continue to closely follow the evolving situation in Afghanistan.
The spokesperson said we have noted the latest announcement about formation of interim political set-up in Kabul, which would address the requirement of a governance structure to meet the urgent needs of the people of Afghanistan.
He expressed hope that the new political dispensation will ensure coordinated efforts for peace, security and stability in Afghanistan as well as work towards taking care of humanitarian and development needs of the Afghan people.
“We hope that the new political dispensation will ensure coordinated efforts for peace, security and stability in Afghanistan as well as work towards taking care of humanitarian and development needs of the Afghan people,” the statement added. He reaffirmed its abiding commitment to a peaceful, stable, sovereign and prosperous Afghanistan.
The Taliban announced their much-awaited interim government, with UN-blacklisted veteran in the top role, weeks after they swept to power and toppled the US-backed president.
Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund — a senior minister during the Taliban’s earlier reign in the 1990s — was appointed acting prime minister, while Mullah Baradar was appointed deputy interim prime minister.
The Taliban had promised an inclusive government that would reflect the ethnic makeup of the country, but all the top positions were handed to key leaders from the movement and the Haqqani network known for devastating attacks.
Pakistan sending aid to Afghanistan
Pakistan has decided to dispatch humanitarian assistance comprising food and medicines for the people of Afghanistan.
In another statement, Foreign Office spokesperson said three C-130s are being dispatched to Afghanistan. After the first immediate tranche through air, further supplies would continue through land routes.
He said the government of Pakistan will continue to do its best to help Afghan brethren during the prevalent challenging environment. The spokesperson said Pakistan also urges the international community to play its role in helping the people of Afghanistan to avert possible humanitarian crisis.
