KUALA LUMPUR – Barisan Nasional has urged the government to reach out to the Taliban following its takeover of Kabul this month.
In a statement today, BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir said the coalition slams the United States for its troops’ abrupt and disorderly exit from Afghanistan, resulting in a security crisis.
“America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in a poorly planned and uncoordinated manner, and the failure of the exiled Afghan government to defend its position, have jeopardised the security situation in Afghanistan.
“Following this development, BN expresses its concern about the increasingly dire humanitarian crisis that will culminate in the near future.”
He said BN calls on Putrajaya to engage with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) over the Afghan crisis.
“As a reputable and neutral Islamic country, Malaysia has the capability to influence OIC members to come to a consensus on matters relating to the future of Afghanistan.”
The former Perak menteri besar urged the government to reach out to the Taliban’s delegation in Doha, Qatar, with the purpose of facilitating international humanitarian aid.
However, he said, any recognition of the Taliban must be in line with the international community.
“Our government must follow the tenets and principles of international relations that we have practised over the years in recognising any government or regime.
“There should be no special exceptions in the case of the Taliban.” – The Vibes, August 28, 2021
