ISTANBUL: Former Afghan First Vice-President and National Islamic Movement of Afghanistan leader Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum has called for fundamental political change and national unity, warning that Afghanistan’s deepening crisis under Taliban rule requires collective action.
Speaking at a gathering in Istanbul on the occasion of National Uzbek Language Day, Dostum said he was closely monitoring political and social developments in Afghanistan and that efforts to improve conditions for the Afghan people were continuing.
The gathering was attended by tribal elders, representatives of Afghan associations based in Istanbul and members of the political committee of the National Islamic Movement.
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Former First Vice President Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum met with community elders and association representatives in Istanbul during his trip from Ankara, emphasizing language preservation, fundamental change in Afghanistan, and national unity.#aamajnews https://t.co/qP7Ws41hSK
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Dostum stressed the need for unity among Afghanistan’s political factions and people, emphasising that collective efforts were essential to address the country’s challenges and shape its future.
He also highlighted the role of the international community in facilitating political change, arguing that fundamental reforms would not be possible without the participation of influential political groups.
Addressing cultural and linguistic issues, Dostum called for the preservation and promotion of the Uzbek and Turkmen languages. He said previous efforts to secure recognition for the languages should be strengthened and continued.
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His remarks come five years after the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan, with the country continuing to face political challenges, social pressures and questions over the legitimacy of its governing authorities, both domestically and internationally.
Dostum urged Afghans not to lose hope, maintaining that the country’s future depended on solidarity, national unity and collective efforts towards change.
