The 5th Moscow Format Meeting on Afghanistan

5th Moscow Format Meeting

5th Moscow Format Meeting: A significant diplomatic gathering took place in Kazan, Russia, as representatives from various nations convened for the fifth meeting of the Moscow Format Consultation on Afghanistan on September 29, 2023. This high-level meeting brought together special representatives and senior officials from countries such as India, Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Notably, the acting Afghan Foreign Affairs minister appointed by the Taliban also attended, alongside delegates from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey.

Download Free February 2024 BOLT PDF (Current Affairs)

Objective of the 5th Moscow Format Meeting:

The primary objective of this diplomatic gathering was to address the evolving situation in Afghanistan, with a particular focus on regional security dynamics and the country’s integration into the economic processes of its neighboring regions.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting:

A significant outcome of the meeting was a collective call to the Taliban, urging them to establish an inclusive government that genuinely represents the interests of all major ethnopolitical groups within Afghanistan. Additionally, the participants called on the Taliban to intensify their efforts in counter-terrorism and anti-drug activities.

Urgent Need to Unblock Afghan Assets:

One unanimous point among the attendees was the pressing need for the immediate and unconditional unblocking of Afghan assets by the United States and its allies. These assets are vital for the post-conflict reconstruction of Afghanistan’s economy. Furthermore, the participants expressed strong opposition to any potential return of US and NATO military structures to Afghanistan or neighboring territories, deeming such a move unacceptable.

Adoption of the Kazan Declaration:

Towards the conclusion of the meeting, the participants jointly endorsed the “Kazan Declaration of the Moscow Format of Consultation on Afghanistan.” This declaration signifies their collective commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by Afghanistan and the broader region.

International Pressure on the Taliban at the United Nations:

This international gathering follows previous discussions at the United Nations, where 11 countries, including the United States, France, Britain, Japan, Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, Ecuador, Albania, and Malta, expressed concerns about the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. These nations described the actions of the Taliban as “gender-based violence” and called for global support to categorize “gender apartheid” within international law.

Women’s Rights Advocacy in Afghanistan: 5th Moscow Format Meeting

A representative from the Women’s Rights Council urged the Taliban to revoke all restrictive policies related to women’s education and employment. Afghan women have been actively protesting against the Taliban’s policies, even resorting to hunger strikes, in their unwavering pursuit of their rights in challenging circumstances.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

Oliveboard Live Courses & Mock Test Series