Uzbekistan Affirms Afghanistan’s Right to Amu River Water Access

Uzbekistan’s Water Resources Minister Shavkat Khamraev affirmed Afghanistan’s right to Amu River water via the Qosh Tepa Canal, emphasizing regional relations. Tensions regarding education bans for girls persist amid calls for international recognition. Russia expressed concern over Afghanistan’s counter-terrorism efforts yet supports regional collaboration against militancy.

The Uzbek Minister of Water Resources, Shavkat Khamraev, asserts that Afghanistan is entitled to access the water of the Amu River through the Qosh Tepa Canal, confirming Tashkent’s support for this arrangement. He emphasized the bonds shared between nations, stating, “The Afghans are our relatives. They also have the right to take water from the Amu River. Should we pick up weapons and fight? No, we are building better relations.”

The Amu River serves as a crucial water source in northern Afghanistan and has been extensively utilized by Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Although Afghanistan has not utilized this water for years, the Islamic Emirate is now focused on completing the Qosh Tepa Canal, a project designed to enhance water access. Spanning over 280 kilometers, this canal is expected to irrigate 1.2 million hectares in Balkh, Jowzjan, and Faryab provinces.

Experts indicate that once the Qosh Tepa Canal is fully operational, Afghanistan could potentially achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production, significantly improving food security for the nation. In related news, the United Nations has expressed its disappointment regarding the ongoing ban on secondary education for Afghan girls, which adversely affects various aspects of society, including economic prospects and human rights.

Roza Otunbayeva, the Special Representative for Afghanistan, criticized the ban, noting its impact on 2.2 million girls, and projected dire consequences if it continues. Meanwhile, Russia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, commented on Afghanistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, regarding them as inadequate yet understandable given the region’s economic challenges.

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has reiterated its commitment to fighting militancy, claiming that Daesh has been effectively suppressed within its borders. Additionally, Zabihullah Mujahid has announced the request for the handover of Afghanistan’s embassy in Washington and the reopening of the U.S. embassy in Kabul, showcasing the desire for international recognition and improved relations.

Amid these geopolitical developments, concerns over rising tensions between Iran and the U.S., as well as discussions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine situation, remain prevalent in current affairs.

In summary, Afghanistan’s right to access the Amu River’s water through the Qosh Tepa Canal has been affirmed by Uzbek officials, promoting regional collaboration. Furthermore, the ongoing denial of education for Afghan girls highlights a significant humanitarian issue. As Afghanistan strives for international recognition and improved diplomatic ties, it faces numerous challenges, including security struggles and economic recovery, underscoring the complex nature of the current geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: www.ariananews.af