Peace Jirga concludes in Afghanistan
The UN Secretary-General has congratulated Afghanistan following the conclusion of its Consultative Peace Jirga.
Afghan civilians
In a statement released on Friday, Ban Ki-moon characterized the meeting as “a significant step toward reaching out to all Afghan people to promote an inclusive dialogue aimed at achieving stability and peace in Afghanistan.”
The Secretary-General stated that the United Nations supports national efforts to end conflict in Afghanistan, and remains fully committed to working with the authorities and people as they strive for a peaceful life.
Meanwhile, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said “it is essential that the momentum of this Jirga is maintained and utilised to take the next steps toward the Kabul Conference in July.”
The UN provided technical assistance to the three-day peace jirga, which was held in the capital, Kabul. The opening on Wednesday was marred by a Taliban attack when three rockets landed near the meeting site.
The talks aimed to create a common vision about the way forward for bringing peace to the country. Approximately 1,600 delegates from across Afghanistan attended, including about 300 women.
Dianne Penn, UN Radio.
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