EU envoy says restrictions on women hinder normalisation with Afghanistan
Thomas Frilnsen, the European Union’s special envoy for Afghanistan, has described the restrictions imposed on women and girls as a major obstacle to normalising relations with Afghanistan.
In a statement, the EU delegation said Frilnsen left Kabul after a three-day visit. During the trip, he held talks with officials from the Taliban administration, members of the diplomatic community, representatives of the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, as well as a number of Afghan civil society activists.
According to the delegation, the EU envoy stressed the bloc’s deep concern over the restrictions on women and girls, which have affected their access to education, work and social participation.
Frilnsen also called for the resumption of dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan to address the security concerns of both sides, and emphasised the need to reduce tensions and protect civilians.
He also stressed the continuation of humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan, support for returnees, and prioritising climate-related projects to reduce the impact of climate change.
