Qatar’s envoy to the UN has called for international support for Afghanistan’s former poppy farmers, urging alternative economic initiatives. This statement highlights positive aspects in the global fight against drugs, with a noticeable decrease in opium production. Concurrently, rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan are noted due to recent attacks attributed to militants. Meanwhile, India reaffirms its commitment to development projects in Afghanistan, emphasizing ongoing engagement and support for stability in the region.
Qatar’s envoy to the UN, Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, presented a statement emphasizing the need for international support for Afghanistan’s former poppy farmers, advocating alternative livelihoods for them. During the recent 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, he highlighted positive trends in the global fight against drugs, including a significant reduction in opium production in Afghanistan.
Al-Hammadi called for focused efforts to assist Afghan farmers through alternative development initiatives, which would help shift economic dependence from drug cultivation to sustainable opportunities. He underscored the importance of adhering to international drug control commitments and supporting the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) in its policy-making role.
Historically, Afghanistan has been a dominant source of illicit heroin, accounting for over 90% of global production as of 2021. Continuous engagement from the international community is deemed vital in the fight against narcotics and in providing new avenues for economic stability in Afghanistan’s rural sectors.
In related news, the Pakistan Army has linked a recent train attack in Balochistan to militants operating from Afghanistan, claiming coordination via satellite communication during the assault. This incident has escalated tensions, with calls from Pakistan for the Islamic Emirate to prevent its territory from being used for cross-border attacks.
The Islamic Emirate has currently dismissed Pakistan’s accusations regarding its inability to control terrorist groups like Daesh. Their spokesperson argued Afghanistan is secure and that the country’s representation in international forums is essential for accurate depictions of its security situation.
Meanwhile, India is reinforcing its commitment to Afghanistan, with discussions on bilateral relations and development projects ongoing. The Indian Ambassador to the UN stated that these ties serve as a fundamental aspect of India’s engagement strategy in the region, reaffirming support for Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts since 2001.
The recent dialogues highlight Qatar’s proactive role in promoting sustainable economic alternatives for Afghanistan’s former poppy farmers, reflecting a shift towards combating the global drug trade. Simultaneously, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, driven by security concerns, necessitate careful diplomatic engagement. India’s continued investment in Afghanistan’s development makes them a significant partner in the region, contributing to stability and economic growth. Overall, there is a strong call for international cooperation to resolve these issues and to support the emergence of a stable and economically viable Afghanistan.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
