Zhang Ming: Afghan Situation Important for Regional Security, Stability
Zhang Ming, the Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), stressed the impact of Afghanistan’s stability and security on the region during an interview with a Russian media outlet.
Ming stated that establishing an inclusive government in Afghanistan would benefit the country.
Zhang Ming stated: “The Afghan issue is also very important, especially in terms of ensuring peace, stability and security in the region. We would like to see Afghanistan become a country free of terrorism, war and drugs. And we hope that in the future Afghanistan will form a government with the broad participation of representatives of all political, ethnic and religious groups, an open tolerant government. This will benefit Afghanistan, the SCO space, and the entire international community.”
The SCO Secretary-General, regarding Afghanistan’s membership in the organization, said that a country’s membership request is welcomed when it supports the principles and values of both the SCO and the United Nations.
He said: “It has been over twenty years since Mongolia became an observer country. Afghanistan has also played a significant role in this status for years. Membership in the SCO is not difficult; our organization has always adhered to the principle of openness in this regard. We welcome countries that support the core principles and values of the SCO Charter and the United Nations Charter.”
The Islamic Emirate has not commented on this matter so far; however, it previously said the formation of a government is an internal issue of Afghanistan.
Fazl Rahman Oria, a political analyst, spoke to regarding the calls for an inclusive government, saying: “The slogan of an inclusive government lacks a clear definition and meaning. Based on this, it remains an imaginary slogan. However, what belongs to Afghanistan is for the Afghan government to strengthen its political, social, and economic foundations so that all people feel a sense of representation in the government.”
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization has eleven members, with Afghanistan and Mongolia among the observer countries.
