Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the prospects for a peace deal in Afghanistan.

​Despite continuing challenges, there is the real prospect of a credible peace process for Afghanistan. Concerted Afghan and international efforts continue, with positive signs including US-Taliban talks; the recent intra-Afghan dialogue co-convened by Germany and Qatar; and the consultative Loya Jirga in Kabul. Intra-Afghan negotiations are now needed to find a sustainable settlement which will assure the country's future peace and stability. It is crucial that the democratically elected National Unity Government plays a central role, and that peace efforts are inclusive, including women and minorities. The people of Afghanistan deserve peace after decades of conflict and insecurity. We strongly believe that a political settlement is the only way to achieve lasting peace and stability.