Context
In a UN Security Council meeting on Thursday, Russia insisted Afghanistan must stay neutral after troops withdraw from the region. Russian deputy ambassador to the UN, Alexander Pankin said, “if Kabul sets a goal of restoring neutrality as early as now, this can ease the reconciliation dialogue with the opposition.” The diplomat told UN members that military means were not enough to stabilize Afghanistan.
Alexander Pankin stated that talks should be held with insurgents if they agree to abide by the Afghan constitution, sever their links to Al-Qaeda and to lay down their arms.
Pankin criticized Nato’s ineffectiveness in controlling the situation and warned militancy networks could spread to bordering countries.
Russia fears, the situation in Afghanistan could spark terrorist activities in Central Asian states.
