UN Chief Antonio Guterres calls for action to revive Afghanistan

As the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan worsens, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday that countries must band together and act swiftly to ensure a better future for Afghans.

According to UN New report, the UN chief delivered a message on Wednesday during a regional conference of Iran’s neighbours, organised by Iran. 

Foreign Ministers from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan attended the conference in Tehran, according to media sources, with their Russian and Chinese counterparts joining via video.

“Afghanistan is confronting an epic humanitarian crisis and is on the verge of a development catastrophe,” the UN chief said in a video message. 

“We can only achieve more stability with a united approach. Together, let us act with determination – and without delay – to help the people of Afghanistan and to secure a better future for all.”

Starting with humanitarian help, the UN head outlined four areas for action that he said are of regional and international significance. Despite huge challenges, he said that the UN is conducting a “massive” humanitarian effort in the country.

“We have been acting with the cooperation of the Taliban, who have progressively granted access to the areas requested and provided security when needed,” he said.

Furthermore, Guterres expressed gratitude to neighbouring countries for their cooperation in moving aid workers and supplies. He also stressed the importance of continuous cooperation on the refugee crisis, adding that “international support to hosting countries must match the scale of requirements”.  

The UN Chief emphasised the importance of working together to resuscitate the Afghan economy, which is on the verge of collapse. “Injecting liquidity into the Afghan economy can be done without violating international laws or compromising principles,” he said.

Afghanistan’s people also require an inclusive and representative government, one that defends human rights and fundamental freedoms while adhering to international humanitarian law.