Afghanistan: increased commitment needed

Norway calls on the Afghan government to demonstrate a genuine interest to fulfil basic and crucial commitments towards its people and the international community. If not, President Karzai’s new administration may risk losing support.

Officers of Afghanistan National Police take cover as they guard the office of Governor of Bamiyan province. Photo: UN Photo/Eric Kanalstein

Norway’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Mona Juul, presented Norway’s statement on the situation in Afghanistan to the United Nations General Assembly on Monday, Nov. 9. The Assembly then unanimously adopted the annual resolution on the same issue. That resolution was co-sponsored by more than 100 countries.

In its statement Norway emphasised the broad support for this resolution because it sends an important message that the international community has a common wish for improved security, political stability and development for the people of Afghanistan. To reach that goal it is imperative that we express our strongest support for the UN mission in Afghanistan, Ambassador Juul said.

Referring to the deadly attack on UN staff in Kabul on Oct. 28, the Ambassador welcomed efforts by Secretary-General to improve security for UN staff. She said it is deeply tragic that the UN, whose mandate includes working for peace, stability and improved coordination, has been hit so hard.

Read Norway’s full statement here.

To learn more visit Norway Mission to the UN.