At the Fifth round of Vienna Conference, opposition figures to the Taliban announced that they have approved key documents outlining a roadmap for Afghanistan’s future.
These documents define a political vision based on a democratic system, international relations, human rights, and an economic framework.
In a statement, participants of the conference highlighted that the roadmap presents a coordinated and strategic approach for establishing a sustainable, democratic, and inclusive future in Afghanistan. They emphasised that these documents are the result of extensive consultations and expert contributions from the working groups within the Vienna Process.
According to the statement, the political vision approved by Taliban opponents outlines the principles and framework for a democratic and participatory system, grounded in free elections, equal citizenship rights, and the rule of law.
The resolution also details strategies for international relations, focusing on engaging the Afghan people with the global community, developing diplomatic relations, and mobilising international political and economic support.
In terms of human rights, the Taliban opponents stated that the documents propose mechanisms for protecting the rights of women, children, and ethnic groups in Afghanistan. The plan also includes serious measures for ensuring justice, including prosecuting human rights violators.
The economic framework addresses strategies for sustainable development, poverty reduction, natural resource management, and attracting foreign investment to create jobs and improve public welfare.
A major decision taken at the Fifth Vienna Conference was the formation of a National Commission composed of 19 members.
According to the statement, this commission will be responsible for finalising key documents, proposing solutions to the crisis, and establishing inclusive political structures based on previous declarations and the outcomes of working group discussions.
The Taliban’s opponents have called on the international community to adopt a targeted and practical approach in shaping Afghanistan’s future and assisting in the creation of a transitional government.
Participants at the Vienna meeting also urged the international community to recognise the approved documents and roadmap as the foundation for a just and inclusive political system. They emphasised that Afghanistan requires a legitimate and representative government that upholds Islamic values and the rule of law.
The Fifth Vienna Conference commenced on Tuesday, bringing together dozens of anti-Taliban figures. During the meeting, Ahmad Massoud and Yasin Zia, leaders of armed opposition groups, reiterated their commitment to continuing the fight against the Taliban until Afghanistan is liberated.
In an interview with Afghanistan International, Mohammad Mohaqiq, leader of the People’s Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, highlighted internal divisions within the Taliban. He suggested that opposition figures within the Taliban, such as Sirajuddin Haqqani and Mullah Baradar, could eventually join the Vienna Process.
Meanwhile, Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s spokesperson, dismissed the Fifth Vienna Meeting as a “failed attempt”. He called on political opponents of the Taliban to return to Afghanistan, insisting that the world has recognised Afghanistan as being under the rule of a “strong regime.”
