RASC News Agency: China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, Geng Shuang, urged the Security Council on Thursday, December 14th, to revise the sanctions imposed on the Taliban group, taking into account the current situation on the ground. This request came after the Security Council had already passed a resolution to extend the mission of the monitoring team that supports the Taliban Sanctions Committee.
Geng emphasized the critical stage of peaceful reconstruction that Afghanistan is currently facing. He stressed the importance of the international community’s continued attention and commitment to the country, as well as the need for constructive engagement with the Afghanistan authorities. Geng highlighted the urgency to address Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, revive its economy, improve human rights protection, and facilitate its reintegration into the global community.
The Chinese representative also underscored the persistent threat of terrorism in Afghanistan. He called for heightened vigilance from the international community, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and cooperation. Geng urged the abandonment of double standards and urged support for Afghanistan in effectively combating all forms of terrorist forces. He emphasized the need to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a breeding ground for terrorist organizations.
China has consistently expressed its support for direct contact between the monitoring team and Taliban officials, as well as the establishment of effective communication channels. Furthermore, China appreciates the inclusion of language in the resolution that encourages the team to visit Afghanistan and engage with all parties involved. It is believed that such direct engagement will lead to a favorable outcome in a timely manner, as stated by Gang.
In line with the resolution’s preamble, Gang emphasized the importance of the Security Council ensuring that the sanctions against the Taliban effectively contribute to peace and stability in Afghanistan. He also stressed the need for necessary reforms to be made based on the situation on the ground. China firmly believes that the Security Council should make timely adjustments to the sanctions to facilitate practical interaction between the international community and the Taliban. This approach aims to prevent any negative impact on the livelihood of the Afghanistani people and hinder the country’s development.
Geng further clarified that the Security Council should take immediate action by resuming travel exemptions for certain Afghanistani Taliban officials. He emphasized that China has always emphasized the significance of travel exemptions as a crucial tool for facilitating dialogue and interaction, rather than using them as a means of exerting pressure. China has put forward specific proposals in this regard, which were not reflected in the draft resolution.
Geng expressed hope that the Council members would maintain communication, demonstrate pragmatism and flexibility, and work towards finding a solution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. This collaborative effort is essential to support the next phase of dialogue and interaction with Taliban officials.
