RASC News Agency: The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) has raised serious concerns over the activities of “terrorist groups” operating within Afghanistan, describing them as a grave threat to the security of its member states. In a joint declaration issued by the foreign ministers of CSTO member nations, the organization highlighted the alarming presence of such groups and their destabilizing influence.
The declaration stated:
“We are profoundly alarmed by the deteriorating security environment posed by terrorism emanating from Afghanistan. The terrorist groups operating within its borders represent a significant and persistent danger to the collective security of CSTO member countries.”
According to TASS News Agency, the CSTO foreign ministers underscored the urgent need for an inclusive government in Afghanistan. They called for the establishment of an administration that equitably represents all ethnic and social groups while upholding its commitments to fundamental human rights and freedoms. This includes ensuring the rights of women and girls, particularly their access to education and employment.
The joint statement emphasized:
“We are deeply troubled by the ongoing ethnic and religious persecution in Afghanistan.”
The CSTO also stressed the importance of strengthening regional cooperation to combat terrorism and curb drug trafficking. The member states urged the Taliban to intensify their efforts against these issues, stating:
“Despite local measures reported by the authorities, we remain gravely concerned about the escalating drug problem in Afghanistan. Coordinated, sustained efforts to prevent the spread of drug trafficking to neighboring countries are of paramount importance.”
United Nations reports indicate that more than 20 terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qaeda, are active within Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The UN further accuses the Taliban of maintaining close ties with Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and al-Qaeda, providing these groups with safe havens. The CSTO’s concerns reflect the growing international alarm over Afghanistan’s deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions, which continue to pose significant regional and global challenges.
