JALALABAD - Afghanistan’s First Lady, Rula Ghani, speaking at an International Women’s Day celebration in Jalalabad, highlighted the complementary roles women and men can play in Afghanistan and reiterated her commitment to women’s rights.

Some 800 people attended the event -- including police officers, members of civil society, health workers, business people, government officials and students – during which the First Lady presented awards to 20 professional women in recognition of their contributions to community development.

Ms. Ghani, who is a strong supporter of women’s rights in Afghanistan, talked about the role of women according to the Koran. “According to Islam, men and women should live together in peace and tranquility,” she said. “They should mutually support each other.”

She went on to talk about the great potential of Afghan women and said they can be successful if they have the opportunity to study: “When they are empowered, they can make good decisions for their families and communities.”

We are here, said the First Lady, because of women.

Governor Salim Khan Kunduzi delivered a message from Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah. He said that the country has made some achievements for women, but more work is needed, such as in assessing the situation of women and eliminating all forms of violence against women.

Humaira Rafi, a member of the Nangarhar Provincial Council said that it was positive to see women being empowered, particularly in urban areas, but pointed out that more attention needs to be given to women in rural areas of the country.

“Women should use opportunities created by the National Unity Government and the international community,” said Ms. Rafi. “Women should work shoulder to shoulder with their brothers for the prosperity of the country.”

Ms. Rafi singled out, in particular, policewomen who she said have played an important role in improving security.

International Women’s Day falls on 8 March, with celebrations taking place around this time all over the world.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and relevant international and local non-governmental organizations to assist in the full implementation of the fundamental freedoms and human rights provisions of the Afghan Constitution and international treaties to which Afghanistan is a State party, in particular those regarding the full enjoyment by women of their human rights.