The United States has once again stressed the need for the appointment of a United Nations Special Envoy for Afghanistan during a United Nations Security Council meeting on the extension of UNAMA’s mandate. Jennifer LoCastro, the U.S. Deputy Representative to the United Nations, said on Monday that the Taliban must fulfill their commitments on counterterrorism, end what she described as a “hostage-taking policy,” respect Afghanistan’s international obligations, and halt violations of the rights of women and girls. She also emphasized that UNAMA’s activities cannot replace a UN-led political process, which was envisioned for Afghanistan under UN Security Council Resolution 2721. LoCastro said the United States supports UN efforts to advance an inclusive and coordinated political process on Afghanistan and considers the appointment of a Special Envoy an important part of that process. The remarks came as the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2822, extending the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) for another year.
