Uzbekistan’s Water Resources Minister affirmed Afghanistan’s right to Amu River water, facilitated by the Qosh Tepa Canal. Concurrently, UNAMA expressed disappointment over the continued ban on girls’ education in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Russia identified inadequacies in Afghanistan’s fight against terrorism, attributing them to economic issues. IEA seeks to reclaim its embassy in Washington, indicating a desire for international recognition amid additional geopolitical discussions.
Uzbekistan’s Minister of Water Resources, Shavkat Khamraev, affirmed Afghanistan’s right to access water from the Amu River, facilitated through the Qosh Tepa Canal. Khamraev emphasized that Tashkent supports Afghanistan’s share of this vital resource without any objections, maintaining that shared familial ties should reinforce cooperation rather than conflict. “The Afghans are our relatives. They also have the right to take water from the Amu River. Should we pick up weapons and fight? No, we are building better relations,” he declared.
The Amu River functions as a crucial freshwater source for the northern nations of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, which have historically utilized its waters. Afghanistan, however, has not accessed this water for an extended duration. The Islamic Emirate aims to secure its water rights by completing the Qosh Tepa Canal, which spans over 280 kilometers and promises to irrigate 1.2 million hectares across Balkh, Jowzjan, and Faryab provinces. This initiative is projected to enhance Afghanistan’s self-sufficiency in wheat production significantly.
In a separate development, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expressed profound disappointment regarding the ongoing ban on girls’ secondary education, now in its fourth consecutive year. Roza Otunbayeva, the Special Representative for Afghanistan, remarked on the adverse implications this ban poses for the nation’s human rights and future prosperity. The current restrictions have already impacted 2.2 million Afghan girls, and if they persist, over four million could suffer by 2030.
The Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, criticized Afghanistan’s insufficient efforts in combating terrorism, attributing these shortcomings to economic difficulties and security issues. He described ISIS as the primary threat to both Russian national and regional security and affirmed Russia’s commitment to working with regional partners under collective agreements to counter these threats. Additionally, he refuted media allegations regarding weapon supplies from Pakistan to Ukraine.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has repeatedly highlighted its success in suppressing ISIS activities within its borders and claims these actions stem from challenges in Pakistan. Furthermore, IEA spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid indicated the Islamic Emirate’s initiative to regain control of Afghanistan’s embassy in Washington D.C. during the recent visit of a US delegation. This request signifies the Islamic Emirate’s aspirations for international recognition and improved bilateral relations with the US, as evidenced by the recent release of a detainee by American authorities.
Amidst rising tensions concerning Iran and the United States, various discussions and evaluations are underway regarding their geopolitical dynamics, including broader regional developments. Meetings discussing terror threats, education issues, and international relations reflect the complex and evolving nature of Afghanistan’s position within the regional landscape.
In conclusion, Uzbekistan acknowledges Afghanistan’s rightful access to Amu River water, fostering a spirit of cooperation between neighboring countries. Furthermore, the ongoing ban on girls’ education in Afghanistan highlights significant challenges to societal progress and stability. Meanwhile, concerns regarding terrorism persist as Afghanistan navigates its complex relationships with regional powers, while its leadership seeks international legitimacy amidst efforts to manage internal and external challenges. The trajectory of Afghanistan’s development hinges on these crucial issues, necessitating future support and collaboration.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
