The Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Nurlan Yermekbayev, announced that member states will convene a consultative meeting on Afghanistan in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on September 10–11.
According to Yermekbayev, the primary objective of the meeting is to hold a “comprehensive” exchange of views on the current situation in Afghanistan and its implications for regional stability. Discussions will also focus on how SCO member states might engage with the Taliban regarding security, stability, and sustainable development.
In a recent interview with Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency, Yermekbayev said that SCO member states share a unified vision for Afghanistan: the establishment of an inclusive government that represents all ethnic and political groups. He emphasized that such a government is seen by members as the “only” path to lasting peace and stability.
Yermekbayev noted that while SCO members cooperate with the Taliban bilaterally, the organization as a whole is closely monitoring developments in Afghanistan. However, he declined to comment on whether the SCO or its member states intend to formally recognize the Taliban regime.
He added that the overall situation in Afghanistan has remained relatively stable and that some economic indicators have shown improvement. Nonetheless, Afghanistan continues to face significant challenges in combating terrorism, protecting women’s rights and other vulnerable groups, and advancing social and economic development.
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