Uzbekistan has temporarily closed its border with Afghanistan to prevent coronavirus spread. The Islamic Emirate denies accusations from Pakistan about losing control over Daesh. India emphasizes its commitment to Afghanistan’s development, while China calls for increased humanitarian aid. Overall, countries are working together to stabilize Afghanistan amidst ongoing concerns.
Uzbekistan has announced the temporary closure of its border crossing with Afghanistan, specifically the Afghanistan–Uzbekistan Friendship Bridge, to mitigate the risk of coronavirus transmission. This bridge facilitates road and rail transport between HAiratan in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province and Termez in Uzbekistan. Local officials indicated that the closure is a precautionary measure but that it may be lifted soon.
Despite concerns regarding the virus, local officials stated that a flight from Iran that landed in Mazar-e-Sharif contained no infected passengers. Currently, no positive coronavirus cases have been reported in Balkh province; however, cases have emerged in Herat and suspected infections in Ghor, Farah, and Badakhshan provinces. Additionally, Pakistan recently closed its Chaman border with Afghanistan for a week due to the outbreak.
In related news, Hamdullah Fitrat, the spokesman for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, refuted allegations made by Pakistan regarding the presence of Daesh, deeming Pakistan’s statements as unfounded. He asserted that the Islamic Emirate maintains control over Afghanistan and allows no unauthorized activity, while also calling for Afghanistan’s recognition in the United Nations to combat misinformation against the country.
Fitrat’s remarks followed statements made by Pakistan’s UN envoy, Munir Akram, who cited the growing presence of over 20 terrorist groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as a threat that undermines Afghanistan’s security. Some analysts contend that Pakistan’s focus on terrorism is part of a broader political agenda.
Meanwhile, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, emphasized the emotional and strategic bonds between India and Afghanistan during a Security Council meeting. He highlighted India’s ongoing engagement in reconstruction efforts and development projects in Afghanistan, reinforcing India’s commitment since 2001.
Last week, China urged the global community to extend humanitarian aid and economic cooperation to Afghanistan. During a UN Security Council meeting, China’s envoy, Fu Cong, acknowledged progress in Afghanistan’s economy but stressed that the nation still grapples with significant humanitarian challenges, including those related to women’s rights and terrorism. He called for dialogue and cooperation to address these pressing issues.
Fu highlighted the need for restored foreign aid to alleviate the difficulties faced by the Afghan populace and advocated for unfreezing Afghanistan’s foreign reserves. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to assisting Afghanistan without interfering in its internal affairs, emphasizing support for peace and stability in the region.
In summary, the closure of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan border aims to combat the spread of COVID-19, while local officials confirm no current cases in Balkh. The Islamic Emirate’s leadership refutes claims regarding the lack of control over terrorist groups in Afghanistan. Concurrently, India and China have expressed their commitments to support Afghanistan through humanitarian and development initiatives, highlighting ongoing international engagement as vital for the country’s recovery and stability.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
