Canada: No Normalization With Taliban Without Inclusive Government

DID Press: Canada and Australia have reaffirmed their support for the people of Afghanistan, saying they will not support the normalization of relations with the Taliban until tangible progress is made on human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the establishment of an inclusive and representative government.

In a joint statement, Canadian and Australian officials described Afghanistan’s human rights, political and humanitarian situation as concerning and accused the Taliban of creating an “ideological, repressive system” targeting women and girls.

Canada also said restrictions on women, journalists, human rights defenders and civil society continue, while ethnic and religious minorities face discrimination and persecution.

The two countries stressed that they would continue supporting the people of Afghanistan while working to hold the Taliban accountable for their policies and human rights record.