The leaders of Malaysia and Kyrgyzstan called Wednesday for renewed efforts to reintegrate Afghanistan into the international community, provided that certain conditions are met, including respect for global norms.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said both nations support a “conditional reintegration” of Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and humanitarian considerations.
“I accept your perspective on Afghanistan,” Anwar told Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, who was on an official visit. “Given Kyrgyzstan’s geographic proximity, you have a better understanding of the situation. We look forward to your insights and advice.”
Afghanistan has remained largely isolated on the global stage since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, following the collapse of the U.S.-backed government and the withdrawal of American and NATO troops. Despite the group’s harsh rule in the past, most nations have stopped short of full sanctions, citing concerns about a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Millions of Afghans face hunger and economic collapse. Some countries and aid organizations have maintained limited engagement with the Taliban to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance.
In March, Roza Otunbayeva, head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, told the U.N. Security Council that the Taliban must demonstrate a clear commitment to international obligations, particularly on women’s rights and counterterrorism, if they hope to rejoin the global system.
During the press conference, the two leaders also condemned Israel’s military operations in Gaza and expressed alarm over the humanitarian toll of the ongoing conflict.
“We demand an end to aggression, colonization, and genocide by Israel,” Anwar said. “The people of Gaza, who have suffered for years, deserve security and justice. The international community’s failure to uphold basic human rights—and the double standards of some Western nations—has prolonged this crisis.”
Anwar added that countries in the region, including Iran, have the right to respond to Israeli attacks to defend regional peace and security. He also said he had received a personal message from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman supporting a cease-fire and urging Muslim-majority nations to back peace efforts and condemn Israeli aggression.