75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
Estonian Explanation of Vote at today´s vote on the resolution on Afghanistan
August 30, New York
In light of the uncertain developments in Afghanistan and the urgent and precarious security situation in Kabul airport, Estonia gave its support to this resolution today.
The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is deteriorating. Humanitarian organizations and the UN have committed to stay and to deliver relief and assistance, but they need unimpeded access and assurances that their staff and aid providers can work and deliver assistance without interference or threats to their safety. This includes the need for a functioning and secure airport in Kabul that enables people and goods to move as necessary.
Although a lot about the situation in Afghanistan is currently unclear, the last two weeks have shown that there are many aspects on which there is agreement.
To highlight four:
- We have all called for strengthened efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan
- We have all acknowledged that for peace to be sustainable in Afghanistan, an inclusive, negotiated political settlement must be reached, with the full, equal and meaningful participation of women.
- We have together underscored the importance of adherence to international norms and standards on human rights, in particular for women, children and minorities
- We have all reaffirmed the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan
We look forward to building upon these in the interest of all the people of Afghanistan.
