Richard Lindsay, the United Kingdom’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, said on the fifth anniversary of the Taliban’s rule that upholding the rights of women and girls and combating terrorism are among the UK’s key priorities.
Lindsay said on Saturday, August 15, that he had discussed with Taliban officials their commitment to counterterrorism obligations and efforts to address security threats in the region.
He added that upholding the rights of women and girls was also among the important issues discussed during the talks.
Lindsay had previously stressed that Afghanistan cannot make progress as long as women and girls are deprived of education, employment and participation in public life.
The UK special representative said that dialogue with the Taliban is important, but it must be accompanied by practical measures.
He added that stability in Afghanistan is also important for countries in the region and for the UK.
The UK has announced that over the next three years, it will allocate £105 million annually to support life-saving services, education, protection and efforts to strengthen resilience to climate change in Afghanistan.
Lindsay also stressed the need for participation in the UN-led political process for Afghanistan.
He added that the UK remains committed to supporting the people of Afghanistan and citizens of Afghanistan who are working to establish a more inclusive government and a more prosperous future.
