The European Parliament called on the EU Council, the European External Action Service and the European Commission on Thursday 10 June to prepare and present to the Parliament “as soon as possible” a comprehensive strategy on the future of cooperation with Afghanistan after the withdrawal of the NATO Allies’ troops.
In the joint resolution of the S&D, Greens/EFA, EPP, Renew Europe and ECR groups adopted by 610 votes in favour, 34 against and 39 abstentions, the Parliament expresses its concern about the future of the country, which is “at a critical juncture”, adding that the scenario of a ‘failed state’ should be avoided.
MEPs condemn in the strongest terms the alarming level of violence and call on all parties to agree immediately on a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. They also support the immediate resumption of peace negotiations in Doha.
The European Parliament wants the EU to continue its support to the country, but this should not be done without conditions, says the resolution. MEPs consider that this support will remain conditional on the preservation and development of the achievements of the last twenty years, the effective improvement of inclusive and accountable governance, institution building, democratic pluralism, the Rule of law, the fight against corruption, the strengthening of independent media, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Afghans. Women’s empowerment is a “key” condition for continued aid, the European Parliament insists, calling on the EU to step up its support in this area. MEPs also stress the need to use EU funds to invest in improving regional connectivity to facilitate trade and transit.
MEPs believe that international support must also ensure a holistic approach to continued financial and technical support for security, including for the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces and for economic and development reforms.
See the resolution: https://bit.ly/2SfTtqj (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)