BERLIN: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz convened a significant meeting with leaders from Central Asia in Berlin, where they reaffirmed their commitment to the development of Afghanistan as a secure, stable, and prosperous nation that upholds human rights.
The leaders included President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, President Sadyr Zhaparov of the Kyrgyz Republic, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, Chairman Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov of the People’s Council of Turkmenistan, and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan.
During the meeting, which marked the strengthening of relations between Central Asian states and Germany over the past three decades, the leaders expressed their unwavering dedication to Afghanistan’s development. They emphasized the importance of Afghanistan becoming a secure, peaceful, stable, and prosperous nation, with a strong commitment to upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms, especially for women, girls, and ethnic groups.
On Sep 29, Chairman of Halk Maslakhaty of 🇹🇲, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, concluded his working visit to Germany. Key discussions between Central Asian leaders and German officials centered on CA-EU relations, climate action, & sustainable development. Next meeting in CA, 2024. pic.twitter.com/PpFySJ8AUO
— Turkmenistan in Belgium (@TKM_in_Belgium) September 30, 2023
The leaders acknowledged the international community’s efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan in accordance with international law and universally recognized norms. They highlighted the significance of EU-UNDP projects and specialized education programs in the region, emphasizing the need for financial support from donor states and organizations.
Additionally, the leaders stressed the importance of an inclusive and representative government in Afghanistan, one that actively involves all ethnic, religious, and political groups. They underlined the necessity of protecting and respecting the basic human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Afghan citizens and promoting economic revitalization as essential steps toward achieving lasting peace in Afghanistan.
Kazakhstan’s president specifically addressed the situation in Afghanistan, emphasizing the need to continue supporting the efforts of the international community and Central Asian states to prevent a humanitarian crisis in the country. He highlighted the importance of establishing the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty as part of these efforts.
