KABUL - Afghanistan has renewed its commitment to taking charge of its own destiny, a struggle long supported by the Security Council.
Adela Raz, Afghanistan’s ambassador to the UN, hailed the extension of UNAMA’s mandate to continue its activities in Afghanistan.
However, the envoy deplored that the nature of discussions on the draft led to differences among Security Council members.
As a result, the ambassador said, the mission was prolonged for a period of only six months, compared to previous extension of 12 months.
“Afghanistan stands at a critical juncture,” she remarked, referring to the upcoming presidential election scheduled for July this year.
She promised a credible electoral process, saying her government was working towards an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace process.
“We expect the Security Council to remain firmly engaged in our stabilization efforts,” the ambassador added.
German Ambassador Christoph Heusgen underlined the urgent need for progress on an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.
Issues irrelevant to UNAMA’s mandate surfaced and blocked the approval of the resolution they had drafted, he said.
“This six-month extension does not mean the international community is not united in support to Afghanistan.”
Stephen Hickey of Britain also regretted over the Security Council’s inability to adopt a more comprehensive resolution, with a 12-month mandate renewal. (Pajhwok)