EU supports an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process: Mogherini

KABUL (Khaama Press): The High Representative of European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini has said that the European Union supports an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

In her meeting with Abdullah Abdullah, the Chief Executive of National Unity Government, Mogherini said the European stands by side of the Afghan nation and supports democratic process, human rights, women’s rights, freedom of speech, rule of law, and prosperity and development in Afghanistan.

Mogherni further added that there is no for a retreat in Afghanistan emphasizing that peace means development and safeguarding human rights and achievements of the past years.

Reaffirming European Union’s continued support to Afghan people, Mogherini said the Union will its assistance and support to Afghanistan.

According to a statement released by the Office of Chief Executive, the two sides also held talks regarding peace negotiations in Doha, ongoing peace efforts, regional relations and cooperation.

The statement further added that Mogherini international efforts have started taking shape to bring peace and stability in Afghanistan but added that that achieving peace in Afghanistan would be subject to intra-Afghan negotiations.

She also reaffirmed European Union’s support to democratic process and elections in Afghanistan and emphasized that efforts should be maintained to organize a transparent election and a democratic process should not become hostage under any circumstances.

In his turn, Abdullah said achieving peace would be subject to intra-Afghan dialogue and solemn cooperation of Afghanistan as he emphasized that Taliban is the main barrier on the way for achieving peace in Afghanistan.

Abdullah further added that the government is striving to hold a transparent and credible election and there is no plan to halt elections because of peace efforts.