Significant Barriers Impact Afghanistan’s Private Sector

Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo

Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, announced that the third meeting of special envoys focused on Afghanistan, held in Doha, has been productive and continues to make progress.

"This is the first time such a diverse group from the international community and Afghan authorities have had the chance to engage in detailed, frank, and constructive discussions," DiCarlo stated during a press conference. These discussions are based on priority areas identified in an independent evaluation recognized by the United Nations Security Council last November.

DiCarlo highlighted the significant challenges facing Afghanistan’s private sector, which hinder economic growth and development. She emphasized the need for Afghanistan to build on progress in reducing drug production and terrorism, and to address international concerns over severe restrictions on women and girls.

She stressed that Afghanistan's full economic and social development is impossible without leveraging the contributions of half its population. DiCarlo expressed hope that ongoing discussions would foster a more open and inclusive Afghan society, both in governance and civic participation, and thanked Qatar for hosting the meeting.

Regarding the absence of some Afghan parties, DiCarlo expressed regret but noted the constructive participation of others who shared their views and worked towards common goals.

"The fruitful discussions over the past two days have brought us closer to resolving issues that critically affect the Afghan people," she said. "These discussions demonstrated the international community's unity and the United Nations' commitment to supporting principled engagement with Afghanistan for the benefit of all Afghans."

DiCarlo underscored the importance of including Afghan women and civil society in political and peace processes. She pointed out that while Afghan civil society and women were not present in meetings with the de facto authorities, their voices were nonetheless heard.

The discussions covered the need for inclusive governance, respect for minority rights, and the fight against drugs and terrorism—issues critical to Afghanistan's security and its neighbors.

"Our aim was to facilitate direct talks between the de facto authorities and special envoys. Although the de facto authorities did not meet Afghan civil society representatives face-to-face, they were made clearly aware of the need to include women and civil society in all aspects of public life," DiCarlo stated, clarifying that the meeting does not imply normalization or recognition of the current Afghan authorities.

 

 

Source: The Peninsula Qatar