Afghanistan

Vienna meeting: Massoud urges recognition of Afghan people’s resistance as ‘sacred’

Ahmad Massoud, the leader of the Resistance Front, on Monday emphasized the necessity of a “common roadmap” for Afghanistan’s future, underscoring the need to recognize the resistance of the people of Afghanistan as a “sacred matter” given that the Taliban has seemingly left no alternative for them.

Massoud’s remarks came on the second day of the three-day meeting, which brought together anti-Taliban political figures and activists in Vienna. The focus of the second day centered on outlining a roadmap for the country’s future.

“Let us consider the resistance of our brave men and women in the mountains and cities as a sacred matter because there is no other way for them except defense, that too in a military form,” he said. “We should acknowledge this as a sacred matter, and in this regard, we do not need permission.”

Baqir Mohseni, a participant in the meeting, informed Amu that free discussions were held on the second day regarding the creation of a roadmap for Afghanistan’s exit from the existing “crisis.”

“Speeches and statements were made on specific matters on Sunday (Dec. 3). Today (Monday), the roadmap was discussed in a more practical and objective way, and the participants present their views in an operational manner on how to determine the future situation of Afghanistan,” he said.

According to information from some participants, representatives of more than 29 political movements attended the meeting. Some diplomats from foreign countries also reportedly shared insights on the second day.

Mohammad Isa Ishaqzai, the head of the Afghan National Congress, stressed the importance of unity among the people of Afghanistan, especially educated youth, in forming a national government that upholds freedom and human rights.

This marks the third meeting of anti-Taliban figures outside Afghanistan in less than a month, with previous meetings held in Tajikistan and Russia. The Taliban’s deputy foreign minister labeled these meetings as attempts to “weaken” their established political structure in Afghanistan.