Japan’s ambassador to Afghanistan has consistently voiced concerns during discussions with the country’s Taliban leaders on the crucial issue of women’s rights and the concerning restrictions on women.
He has emphasized the importance of upholding and expanding women’s rights in Afghanistan through diplomatic channels, urging for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Ambassador Okada Takashi, engaged in dialogue with the people of Afghanistan and the leadership of the Taliban, shared his insights in a recent interview with NHK online.
Ambassador Okada Takashi, who has been engaging in conversations with the citizens of Afghanistan, noted that two years after the Taliban regained power, there was a noticeable return to normalcy in cities and towns. However, he emphasized that the people continue to grapple with the challenges of mere survival.
He said, “They are facing hardships such as food shortages because foreign aid has been lagging and the economy is in the doldrums.”
Okada extensively addressed the concerning erosion of rights for women and girls over the past two years in his discussion. He pointed out the distressing reality of girls being denied access to secondary education in various regions of the country. Additionally, he raised the
the growing issue of women facing a rising deprivation of chances to participate in social activities.
He emphasized the vital importance of garnering women’s support as a pivotal factor in stabilizing the country and underscored the recognition that the involvement of women plays a crucial role in achieving lasting stability for the country, NHK reported.
In September last year, the Japanese embassy in Afghanistan partially resumed its operations in Kabul. This move came after a temporary relocation to Qatar following the collapse of the previous government.
