The US special envoy for Afghanistan, Thomas West, is due to visit to Pakistan, Germany, and Switzerland to consult with partners, Afghans, and humanitarian relief organizations regarding shared interests in Afghanistan, the US State Department said in a statement.
West’s trip will be from January 29 to February 4.
“The Taliban’s recent edicts have presented the international community with extraordinary challenges as we seek to support the Afghan people and protect our interests,” the statement said. “SRA West will work with counterparts to refine a unified regional and international response that reflects a collective commitment to Afghan women and girls’ rights and access to vital aid.”
Meanwhile, the Islamic Emirate said that the international community should respect the religious and cultural issues of the country and avoid interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.
“In some of the issues that have political and religious sides, organizations and the international community should respect the notions and beliefs of the Afghan people and avoid interference in internal affairs. The Islamic Emirate is committed to the issues belonging to the shared world community,” said Islamic Emirate’s spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid.
Political analysts gave various opinions about West’s visit.
“They wouldspeak only for their benefit, but also for the interest of Afghanistan. They should talk about how to satisfy the Islamic Emirate to implement the international laws,” said Abdul Malik Afghan, a political analyst.
“If the US wants it, it can really help with ensuring peace and stability in Afghanistan. But what obviously seems apparent is that the US lacks a specific strategy regarding Afghanistan,” said Sayed Javad Sijadi, a university instructor.
This comes as the Pakistan media reported that the country’s Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, is on a two-day visit to the Russian Federation.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry said that on this trip the Pakistani foreign minister will discuss issues about Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine.
