Chinese Foreign Minister Urges International To Lift Sanctions Against Afghanistan, Demands Taliban Fulfill Promises On Terrorism

JAKARTA - China's State Counselor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday called for urgent humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, saying economic sanctions should be lifted among other suggestions to jointly bring peace to the country.

Minister Wang made the remarks during a virtual meeting of foreign ministers of the G20 countries via video link. According to him, the G20, as the main economic cooperation platform, should play a constructive role in Afghanistan's peace and development.

"Humanitarian aid is urgent and the countries responsible for the Afghan situation must do something to ease the hardships of Afghans," Minister Wang said, citing the Global Times, September 23.

China itself has decided to provide funds of 200 million yuan or about 31 million US dollars, including the supply of 3 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to Afghanistan.

Urging the West to lift sanctions against Afghanistan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Afghanistan's foreign exchange reserves are a national asset belonging to the people of the country and should be used by them. According to him, reserves should not be used as a bargaining chip to exert political pressure in Afghanistan.

"G20 members should help Afghanistan to reduce liquidity pressures and international financial organizations should offer assistance, in financing poverty reduction, livelihoods, and infrastructure," he said.

In addition, Minister Wang also asked countries to communicate with the country from inclusivity, support Afghans to choose a path that is suitable for their situation, and establish a representative and inclusive political structure.

Not only that, but Minister Wang also urged Afghanistan and the Taliban to fulfill their promise to cut ties with terrorism. However, he also said the international community should challenge double standards in counter-terrorism.

Economic reconstruction is the ultimate solution to the refugee problem. The US and NATO are responsible for the refugee problem. Afghanistan should increase inclusivity and predictability in governance while the international community should help accelerate reconstruction, Wang said.

Minister Wang added that China supports the United Nations to play a leading role in maintaining peace and channeling aid to Afghanistan. Urge the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan and other UN organs to fulfill their duties.

"There are several mechanisms in Afghanistan that must work together to help the country. China is willing to maintain communication and coordination with relevant parties and enhance cooperation," said Minister Wang.