The regional contact group meeting for Afghanistan commenced in Tehran with representatives from Iran, China, Russia, and Pakistan in attendance. Hassan Kazemi Qomi emphasized the importance of neighboring countries collaborating with Kabul to ensure Afghanistan’s stability and development, especially in light of the challenges created by the US invasion from 2000 to 2021. The meeting focused on addressing issues such as drug trafficking and security concerns, highlighting the need for a collective approach to support Afghanistan.
Kazemi Qomi also mentioned the upcoming third Doha Meeting and urged Afghanistan’s neighboring countries to actively participate in regional initiatives for resolving the country’s problems. Emphasizing the need for an inclusive government in Afghanistan, he stressed the importance of involving various ethnic groups and political factions to navigate the current crises.
Despite the opportunity for the Taliban to engage in constructive dialogue during the meeting, they opted not to participate. This decision underscored the complexities and challenges facing Afghanistan as it seeks to overcome its present difficulties.