Security Council Press Statement on Afghanistan

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Jacobus van Bohemen (New Zealand):

The members of the Security Council welcomed the direct talks held on the 7 July in Muree, Pakistan, between the Government of Afghanistan and Taliban representatives as a step towards peace and reconciliation.

The members of the Security Council encouraged the parties in the talks to continue building on these efforts through an inclusive, Afghan-led and Afghan-owned dialogue as laid forth in the 20 July 2010 Kabul Conference communiqué.

The members of the Security Council expressed their appreciation for the constructive roles played by the Government of Pakistan, China, the United States and the international community.

The members of the Security Council reiterated that women have a vital role to play in the peace process, as recognized in Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and related resolutions, and therefore, recalled the need for the full, equal and effective participation of women at all its stages.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their commitment to support Afghanistan on its path towards peace, reconciliation, democracy and development.