Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister has called on countries that seized helicopters during the collapse of the former government to return them, stressing they are urgently needed for humanitarian use.
Speaking at a meeting of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with diplomats and international organisations, Amir Khan Muttaqi also pressed for sanctions to be lifted and highlighted the difficulties caused by restrictions on the country’s banking system.
Muttaqi urged neighbouring states to return the aircraft, saying:
«We ask those countries that, four years ago following political developments, took part of our helicopters and transferred them to neighbouring countries, to return these helicopters to the Afghan people so they can be used in humanitarian operations.»
He warned that sanctions and banking restrictions have blocked financial support from Afghans abroad.
«Unfortunately, due to the unjust and unlawful restrictions imposed on Afghanistan, our compatriots have been unable to send aid to those affected by the earthquake,» he said.
Muttaqi again appealed to the international community to ease sanctions so that humanitarian assistance could flow more freely.
Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, also spoke at the meeting, voicing concern over the shortage of healthcare workers during recent earthquake rescue efforts in the east of the country.
Muttaqi concluded by emphasising that long-term support for those affected by the disaster remains a priority for the Afghan government.
Kursiv also reports that Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry has denied reports that it intends to hand over 57 helicopters to Afghanistan’s current authorities.
