The recent meeting of foreign ministers from member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) took place on Tuesday (21 May), in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Despite being an observer member of this organization, Afghanistan was not present in this gathering.
Participants at the meeting emphasized the importance of global engaging with Afghanistan to address the country’s current situation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that regional countries must cooperate with Afghanistan to establish a stable governance system, combat terrorism, and achieve lasting peace and stability.
The absence of a representative from Afghanistan has disappointed some political analyst as the country is an observer member of the SCO. “It’s regrettable that Afghanistan was not present at the meeting, especially since its political and military situation was being discussed,” said Mohin Gul Samkanai, a political analyst. “It would have been necessary for a representative of the Islamic Emirate to be present and defend Afghanistan’s position.”
On the other hand, Matihullah Aryanpour, another political analyst, expresses a different opinion. “Afghanistan is not a full member of the SCO and is still an observer, so its presence was not obligatory” he said.
The SCO meeting was attended by foreign ministers from eight member countries, including Russia, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan. Iran also joined the organization in this year.
Efforts to achieve a comment from the Islamic Emirate’s officials regarding the meeting were unsuccessful. However, previous statements from these officials have emphasized their desire for engagement with all countries within the framework of Islam.
Translated by: Frishta Sultani
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