Central Asian countries stress engagement with Afghanistan, expanded cooperation — Pajhwok

KABUL (Pajhwok): Representatives of four Central Asian countries have stressed the importance of engagement with the Afghan government and expanding economic, trade and security cooperation at a regional meeting in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that the second meeting of the Contact Group of Special Representatives of Central Asian Countries on Afghanistan was attended by delegations from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Participants discussed Afghanistan’s political, security, economic, social and humanitarian situation, as well as the condition of vulnerable groups and the impact of developments in Afghanistan on the security and stability of Central Asia. They also exchanged views on expanding cooperation with Afghanistan and exploring opportunities for joint projects in trade, economic affairs, transport, logistics and humanitarian assistance, the statement said. The participants stressed the need for continued regional coordination on security, particularly in combating cross-border crime, terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking. They also described engagement with Afghanistan’s current authorities as important, taking into account the interests and priorities of regional countries. They welcomed Kyrgyzstan’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2027-2028 and expressed readiness to cooperate within the UN framework to advance social, economic, transport, logistics and humanitarian projects in Afghanistan. At the end of the meeting, representatives agreed to continue regular consultations…