Taliban call for international support to re-build economy

Kabul, Aug 31 (EFE) – The Taliban called Tuesday for support from the international community to revive an economy battered by two decades of conflict and heavily dependent on foreign aid.

“All investors, domestic and foreign: I invite everyone to come and invest in Afghanistan. There will be a positive atmosphere, your investments will be in good hands. The country will be stable and secure,” chief Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said at an event in Kabul celebrating US troops withdrawal.

The spokesman said one of the main objectives after the Taliban’s “victory” is the reconstruction of the country and assured that the international community must trust that the aid to Afghanistan under the Taliban will be directed through “proper channels”.

“We must create a healthy, stable and secure environment for all investors who are willing to come and invest in our country,” Mujahid said.

The spokesman called for “national unity” to revive the economy and said that all Afghan parties, factions and tribes will be represented in the government.

“We wish to continue to see our country free and independent,” he promised.

The Taliban spokesman’s speech comes at a time of great uncertainty in Afghanistan, after the Taliban takeover and withdrawal of foreign troops has cut-off a large part of international funds, while waiting for the new regime to win the support of the global community.

The United States on Tuesday did not rule out granting long-term aid to the Taliban, although for the time being it will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghans through international institutions and NGOs.EFE

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