KABUL (SW) – NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg has stressed the Afghan government’s delegation for talks with the Taliban should be inclusive and represent all segments of the society.
Addressing a group of journalists following the release of ‘Joint Declaration Between The Islamic Republic Of Afghanistan And The United States Of America For Bringing Peace To Afghanistan’, he said peace can only come under the leadership of the Afghans.
In the wake of peace deal between the U.S. and Taliban, he said the Alliance would stand by the Afghan government if required. Stoltenberg stressed as long as the terrorists’ sanctuaries are not removed, NATO would remain in Afghanistan. The NATO Secretary General said the NATO presence is conditional.
He categorically said if the Taliban failed to abide by their commitments, NATO forces would stay in Afghanistan. Efforts against Daesh, al-Qaeda and other foreign terrorist groups would be expedited if fighting with the Taliban ends, he said.
NATO has welcomed the announcement of significant first steps in pursuit of a peaceful settlement to the conflict in Afghanistan.
‘We now expect the commencement of intra-Afghan negotiations leading to an enduring and comprehensive peace agreement that puts an end to violence, safeguards the human rights of all Afghans, including women and children, upholds the rule of law, and ensures that Afghanistan never again serves as a safe haven for terrorists. It is important that all parties engage constructively in this process’ NATO said in a statement on Saturday.
NATO also reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to Afghanistan and ongoing support for the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces. ‘We are committed to working with the Afghan people and government to support next steps toward peace’.
ENDS
