Afghanistan: Politics and Government

(asked on 15th October 2020) - View Source

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their latest assessment of the situation in Afghanistan.


Answered by
 Portrait
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
This question was answered on 28th October 2020

We continue to assess that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Only a political settlement negotiated between Afghans can bring lasting peace and stability to their country. The UK, therefore, strongly welcomes and supports the start of negotiations between the Afghan Government and the Taliban, currently taking place in Doha. We hope this historic opportunity leads to progress, and eventually to an inclusive political settlement and an end to the violence in Afghanistan.

However, we remain deeply concerned by continuing high levels of violence in Afghanistan, most notably the recent Taliban offensive in the southern province of Helmand. Thousands of families have been forced to flee their homes. The UK reiterates the urgent need for all sides to find a way to reduce violence. After decades of conflict, the people of Afghanistan want and deserve peace.

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