Qatar has called for a coordinated and balanced approach by Muslim countries toward Afghanistan, stressing the need for collective action that combines humanitarian assistance, responsible political engagement and respect for Afghanistan’s unique circumstances.
The call was made during a technical preparatory meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group on Afghanistan held at the OIC headquarters in Jeddah.
Qatar was represented at the meeting by Dr. Khalid Abdulaziz Al Khalifi, First Secretary at the Office of the Special Envoy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Doha urges balanced approach combining aid, politics and stability
In his remarks, Dr. Al Khalifi said the meeting was taking place at a critical stage and required a unified and realistic strategy to support the Afghan people’s aspirations for security, stability and development in line with OIC principles.
He said Qatar believes the meeting provides an important platform to exchange technical assessments, coordinate efforts and prepare practical recommendations to strengthen the Contact Group’s collective and effective role.
He also expressed hope that the meeting would produce practical and constructive outcomes that reflect the spirit of Islamic solidarity and advance a responsible joint approach toward Afghanistan.
Doha process seen as key platform for global engagement
Dr. Al Khalifi highlighted that Qatar’s hosting of the UN-led Doha Process stems from its firm belief that dialogue remains the most effective path to peace.
He described the Doha Process as a major breakthrough in international efforts on Afghanistan, providing a unified platform for coordination among all relevant parties.
He noted that the third round of the Doha Process led to the creation of two specialized working groups, one on counter-narcotics and the other on the role of the private sector.
These groups aim to build practical cooperation between the Afghan caretaker government and the international community, address humanitarian and development needs, and contribute to long term stability.
OIC diplomats at the meeting also stressed the importance of a unified and coordinated engagement strategy to ensure the effectiveness of the upcoming visit of the Contact Group to Kabul.
