The United Nations Security Council on Monday voted unanimously to extend the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) for one year, amid calls to streamline the operation and strong criticism of the country's Taliban rulers.
Unanimous Vote for Extension
The 15-member council voted in favor of the extension in a text drafted by China, which calls on the UN secretary-general to conduct a strategic review of the mission and submit a report by the end of March next year.
China's Stance on Human Rights
China's UN ambassador Fu Cong expressed hope that the Afghan government would take more proactive measures to protect human rights, especially the rights of women, and project an image of openness, inclusivity, and responsibility.
China and other nations also called for full access to UN workplaces for Afghan female staff who have been barred by the Taliban from entering UN premises.
US Welcomes Strategic Review
The US representative to the meeting, Jennifer Locetta, welcomed the plan for a strategic review and stressed the need for a streamlined, fit-for-purpose UNAMA mandate.
