NEW YORK - The Secretary-General strongly condemns yesterday’s attack in Kabul by the Taliban. Such indiscriminate attacks can never be justified. The Secretary-General expresses his deepest sympathy to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.

The Kabul bombing came days after the Taliban attacks in Kunduz and Baghlan Provinces that caused scores of civilian casualties. The Secretary-General also remains concerned about civilian casualties caused by pro-government aerial and search operations, including on 31 August in Faryab Province.

The Secretary-General believes that the only solution to the conflict in Afghanistan is through an inclusive process of intra-Afghan negotiations. He encourages all political leaders to work together during this period leading to presidential elections and stresses the urgency of ensuring security across Afghanistan.

The Secretary-General expresses the solidarity of the United Nations with the people and the Government of Afghanistan.