Note to Correspondents: In response to press queries on regional meeting on Afghanistan

NEW YORK - Today, the United Nations Secretariat convened a discussion with Member States on regional efforts to support peace in Afghanistan. Afghanistan, China, Iran, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the United States and Uzbekistan participated in the meeting, which was held virtually. 

This format brought together Afghanistan and six neighboring countries plus Russia and the United States, in recognition of the importance of the region to Afghanistan’s stability and sustainable development.

Discussions focused on a comprehensive peace process in Afghanistan through intra-Afghan negotiations, and on the importance of regional cooperation in support to Afghanistan. Participants expressed solidarity with Afghanistan in its quest for peace, security and prosperity, and echoed the Secretary-General’s call for a comprehensive ceasefire, especially in light of the urgent need to combat the spread of COVID-19. The United Nations stands ready to deliver life-saving assistance to people in need and is committed to the peaceful development of Afghanistan.