KABUL (SW): The European Union has reiterated its support for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process, and has vowed support for successful implementation of the Peace Agreement with Hezb-e-Islami.
In a statement on Thursday, the EU, its Member States in Afghanistan and Norway noted the peace agreement with Hezb-e-Islami which will undoubtedly require maximum effort, patience, determination and flexibility from both sides in order to achieve reconciliation for the Afghan people. All achievements gained in the last fifteen years will need to be well observed and respected, particularly concerning transitional justice, human rights – especially women and children's rights – and media freedom, it added.
The EU Special Representative Ambassador Franz-Michael Mellbin expressed hope that Gulbuddin Hekmatyar's arrival in Kabul encourages the wider public belief that peace in Afghanistan is possible. This signifies the moment for others to move from conflict to constitutional politics. Hence, the EU, its Member States in Afghanistan and Norway calls upon all armed opposition groups to come forward, commit to an equitable peace and renounce terrorism, he said.
Gulbudin Hekmatyar has finally arrived in the capital Kabul almost 20 years after he fled during the civil war.
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