Afghan conflict risks spreading into neighbouring countries, Annan warns
21 September -- Recent incursions by Islamic militants from Afghanistan into other parts of Central Asia highlight the danger that the Afghan conflict could spread, and underscore the need for a "comprehensive rather than piecemeal" solution to that country's crisis, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan writes in a new report released today.
Since early August, militant Uzbek dissidents have infiltrated Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, apparently through Tajikistan, clashing with the security forces of these countries, according to the report. "The Governments of these Central Asian republics, and the Russian Federation, have charged that the insurgents emanate from Taliban-controlled areas in Afghanistan, where they have allegedly received shelter, training and logistical support for their operations," Mr. Annan writes. The Taliban has denied these charges.
The Secretary-General expresses his "disappointment" that there has been no significant shift as yet in the "well-known positions of those countries that have interests in and influence on Afghanistan." He stresses that these countries must find a common approach to the Afghan conflict, which "cries out for a comprehensive political solution."
Meanwhile, Afghanistan's humanitarian situation is deteriorating, according to the report. The country is currently experiencing its worst drought in 30 years, causing devastating repercussions on the population, especially in rural areas where people are particularly vulnerable. "The question is how much longer the Afghan people will be able to withstand the accumulated effects of drought and warfare, let alone cope with any possible further economic blows," Mr. Annan writes. He notes that the significant lack of resources often means that humanitarian agencies cannot respond to "brutal, life-threatening needs" and appeals to donors to respond generously to requests for support.
The report does point to a few positive developments, including a recent decree by the Taliban banning opium poppy cultivation in areas under its control, as well as the adoption of a new regional action plan to combat the illicit drug trade. But he says it is "unfortunate" that such positive developments are offset by other actions, such as the Taliban's edict banning the employment of Afghan women and its unwillingness to receive a UN expert on human rights in the country.
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