“Towards Unity and Trust” Conference of Afghan Opposition Opens in Islamabad

A two-day gathering of Afghan political and civil groups opposed to the Taliban, titled “Towards Unity and Trust,” opened on Monday, September 29, in Islamabad, Pakistan. The conference aims to foster political convergence and dialogue on Afghanistan’s future without Taliban rule.

Organizers said the event was initiated by Women for Afghanistan and the South Asia Strategic Stability Institute and has drawn several prominent Afghan political and civil figures. Among the participants are Fawzia Koofi, former member of parliament; Mustafa Mastoor, former minister of economy; Nasir Ahmad Andisha, former Afghan envoy to the UN in Geneva; Ahmadullah Alizai, former governor of Kabul; and Tahir Zohair, former governor of Bamiyan.

The primary goal of the conference is to strengthen regional cooperation and explore solutions to Afghanistan’s prolonged political crisis. Participants are also expected to engage in discussions with Pakistani officials and experts.

The event had been delayed several times due to Taliban opposition, highlighting the determination of Afghan democratic and civil forces to amplify an alternative political voice despite restrictions.

Holding such conferences outside Afghanistan, under Taliban repression at home, underscores ongoing efforts to build national consensus and rescue the country from its political deadlock beyond the circle of Taliban authority.