BAMYAN - In his first visit to Bamyan since the province began transitioning security responsibilities from international to Afghan forces, deputy Martin Kobler reiterated that the United Nations’ commitment to the Afghan people is long-term.

"The international community will remain here in Afghanistan so that the achievements of the past will not be lost," said Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (DSRSG) Martin Kobler who oversees the political activities of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

He added that transition can work only with a successful peace and reconciliation process and economic development that benefit the people.

In response to concerns from Governor Habiba Sarabi and other Bamyan officials that the province would receive less funding than other regions preparing to undergo transition because it is considered more stable, the Deputy Special Representative said the UN believes that "peace must be rewarded, not punished.”

On 17 July, Bamyan began to transition responsibility for security and development to Afghan control as the first of seven provinces, including Herat, parts of Kabul, Lashkar Gah, Mazar-i-Sharif, Mehterlam and Panjshir.

UNAMA is not directly involved in the transition - due to conclude in 2014 - but supports the peace process and the development of Afghan institutions.

The Organization also tries to bring the concerns of isolated groups to the Government in Kabul.

During the visit, the Deputy Special Representative met with Bamyan elders and civil society representatives who called for more equitable distribution of government funds, and pointed out what they called “inadequate political and governmental representation” of Hazaras who do not have a ministerial seat in the Government. Hazaras form a majority of population in the Central Highland Region.

Mr Kobler was also urged on behalf of the international community to provide the region with greater electricity and a paved airport that could accommodate the growing tourist industry.

Before returning to Kabul, Mr Kobler accompanied UN Women Deputy Country Director Syed Sadiq and other UN officials on a tour of a women’s project site.

By UNAMA Bamyan