UN Security Council unanimously extends UN mission in Afghanistan for 3 months

WASHINGTON

The UN Security Council on Monday unanimously adopted a resolution extending the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) for three months.

The draft resolution, submitted by China, received all 15 votes in favor.

UNAMA, the UN’s mission in Afghanistan, facilitates international engagement and coordinates humanitarian efforts, monitors human rights and promotes stability.

Speaking after the vote, China’s UN Ambassador Fu Cong said Afghanistan continues to face multiple challenges and stressed the need for sustained communication between Afghan authorities and the international community to address concerns and promote stability and development.

He said UNAMA plays an “indispensable role” and reaffirmed China’s support for the mission’s work.

Last week, a senior UN official warned that Afghanistan faces compounding crises as regional instability threatens to push the country closer to collapse.

Georgette Gagnon, UNAMA’s deputy special representative, told the council that tensions along Afghanistan’s borders -- including conflict with Pakistan and uncertainty over regional trade routes -- are worsening the country’s fragile situation.