UK envoy says Afghan women’s voices should help shape country’s future

Afghan women’s voices should continue to play an important role in shaping the country’s future, Britain’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Richard Lindsay, said after meeting women, civil society representatives and journalists during a visit to Kabul this week.

“The rights, safety and full participation of women and girls remain fundamental to Afghanistan’s future stability and prosperity, and their voices should continue to play an important role in shaping the country’s future,” Lindsay said in a statement following the visit.

The British envoy reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for the rights of women and girls, saying their participation was essential to achieving what he described as a more stable, prosperous and inclusive Afghanistan.

Lindsay said he valued the opportunity to hear directly from Afghan women during his visit.

His remarks come as women and girls in Afghanistan continue to face extensive restrictions imposed by Taliban authorities, including bans on education beyond sixth grade and university study, as well as restrictions on employment and participation in public life.

During the visit, Lindsay also met senior Taliban ministers and officials, as well as representatives of humanitarian organizations and the international community.

The discussions covered regional stability, security, humanitarian needs, economic development, displacement and the rights of women and girls, according to the British statement.

Regional tensions and security

Lindsay urged steps to reduce regional tensions and prevent further escalation, emphasizing dialogue and practical cooperation on issues including border management and humanitarian access.

“Regional stability is essential for the welfare and security of people across Afghanistan and the wider region,” he said.

Lindsay said Britain remained committed to the peaceful resolution of differences and encouraged practical measures to reduce tensions and address shared challenges.

The statement did not identify specific countries or disputes in describing the discussions on regional tensions.

The envoy also discussed Afghanistan’s security environment and the need to tackle terrorist groups. The statement did not identify specific groups or provide details of what Lindsay raised with Taliban authorities on the issue.

Humanitarian and economic challenges

Lindsay met representatives of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, the World Bank and other international partners to discuss humanitarian assistance and economic development.

The discussions included how international engagement could support Afghans amid continuing humanitarian, health and economic challenges.

“This visit was an important opportunity to engage directly with a wide range of Afghans and to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the country,” Lindsay said.

“The UK remains committed to supporting the people of Afghanistan and to sustained, pragmatic engagement on issues that matter to both our countries.”

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