U.N. Special Representative meets with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of National Coalition of Afghanistan

February 6, 2012 – Kabul, Afghanistan

The newly appointed U.N. Special Representative to Afghanistan Mr. Jan Kubis recently met with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of the National Coalition of Afghanistan to discuss the ongoing situation and recent developments in Afghanistan.
At the onset of the meeting, U.N. Special Representative to Afghanistan Mr. Kubis conveyed his pleasure in assuming his new role in the country and meeting with Dr. Abdullah. Mr. Kubis stated that during the past two weeks, he had met with several political and national Afghan figures in Kabul and in various provinces to discuss issues of national importance. He further added that he would be soon traveling to neighboring countries to meet with respective officials to discuss the state of affairs in Afghanistan.
Mr. Kubis added that Afghanistan was currently at an important stage with the focus being on the timelines for security transition to Afghan authorities and the date of the withdrawal of international forces. He stated that it was important that all partners work together to ensure a successful outcome in this regard. Mr. Kubis indicated that the situation in Afghanistan was complicated and the only way to ensure success is for the Afghan people, the international community and neighboring countries to coordinate together. He further stressed that the withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan did not mean that the international community would abandon Afghanistan. International efforts to assist Afghanistan would continue until Afghan security institutions are capable of ensuring the country’s security and standing on its own.

The U.N. Special Representative spoke about the role of neighboring countries in ensuring peace, stability and security in Afghanistan, in particular that of India, China and Russia. He further added that it was of utmost importance for Pakistan to play a positive role in the ongoing efforts to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan.
Mr. Kubis indicated that the international community was committed to Afghanistan’s democratic and political process and would work to ensure a credible and transparent election process. He referred to Dr. Abdullah as a well known political figure among the international community whose important role was clearly recognized as essential to the ongoing efforts. He asked for Dr. Abdullah’s input on the current situation and how he saw the ongoing plans for the security transition to Afghan authorities. He further inquired about the issues that Dr. Abdullah considered as the most important priority.

On his part, Dr. Abdullah conveyed his congratulations to Mr. Kubis for assuming his new role as the U.N. Special Representative to Afghanistan and stressed hope that his role would further enable the United Nations to successfully implement its assistance efforts for Afghanistan. Dr. Abdullah further added that he was hopeful that the withdrawal of coalition forces from Afghanistan would not reflect the same situation that existed before the tragic 9-11 attacks and that the international community would remain steadfast and committed to its initial goals of ensuring an enduring peace, stability and security in Afghanistan.

He further added that the political process of Afghanistan was a very important priority and that any effort with regard to reconciliation with the Taliban should be conducted within the political process. Furthermore, he indicated that the constitution of Afghanistan, achievements of the past ten years and the role of the United Nations in implementing the democratic process was very important to the people of Afghanistan. He was hopeful that the United Nations would play its effective role in further strengthening these achievements and processes.
With regard to reconciliation efforts and discussions with the armed opposition, Chairman of the National Coalition Dr. Abdullah stated that the people of Afghanistan wanted a dignified, enduring, and just peace. The Afghan nation was in favor of peace, however, in order to successfully move the process forward, it was vehemently essential that the Taliban publicly declare their readiness to engage in sincere, constructive and result oriented discussions with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Unfortunately, the Taliban are still engaged in combat against the Government and people of Afghanistan and the international coalition.

He further added that it was essential for the Taliban’s true identity to be introduced to the Afghan people and whom they represent. Also, to prevent another situation where a shop-keeper falsely introduces themselves as a representative of the Taliban during discussions with Afghan and international officials, it is vital for the Government of Afghanistan and the United Nations to designate one specific location for consultations with the armed opposition. In addition, he indicated that opening of a Taliban representative office was not a necessary precondition, as it may be taken advantage of by the armed opposition.
Chairman of the National Coalition Dr. Abdullah also expressed his disagreement with any effort that may further strengthen the fighting machine of the armed opposition and referred to the terrorist activities of the Taliban, which has resulted in the assassination of several prominent Afghan officials. He further warned about the dangerous plans of armed opposition, but added that the door for negotiations with the Taliban should remain open.

Furthermore, Dr. Abdullah provided an update on the ongoing plans and agendas of the National Coalition of Afghanistan, which are aimed at strengthening the rule of law, instituting reform, anti-corruption efforts, and people’s empowerment. In addition, he discussed the National Coalition’s plans to be engaged in the future Afghan election process and in implementing its priorities in accordance with the law. In conclusion, Dr. Abdullah conveyed his appreciation for the continued support the United Nations, together with international partners, has continued to provide for Afghanistan’s rebuilding effort.

02/06/2012