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Mr. President, At the outset, allow me to thank the delegation of Germany for facilitating the negotiations of the resolution on the situation in Afghanistan as we look forward to its adoption. Lithuania aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU. The first year of the Transformation Decade in Afghanistan has been marked by continuous efforts by the leadership to put forward substantial reforms. However, a number of major challenges to the National Unity Government remain. This reminds us all that Afghanistan continues to need close attention and strong support of the international community.

First, one of the most important challenges is that of creating a secure environment for the development of the nation. Lithuania is deeply concerned with intensified fighting in different parts of the country. The conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on ordinary Afghans. More civilians lost their lives this year than in 2014. Ground engagements, improvised explosive devices, suicide attacks and targeted killings are causing increasing deaths and injuries. The rise in the number of women and children killed and maimed by conflict-related violence is particularly disturbing. The kidnappings and beheadings of Hazara men, women and children add to the latest wave of violence.  ISIL-affiliates in Afghanistan are causing increasing concern as well.

Despite President Ghani’s efforts to restart peace talks with the Taliban, any meaningful results are yet to be seen. We call on the major players in the region to redouble their efforts in supporting the peace process in Afghanistan.

Growing insecurity in Kunduz and other provinces of Afghanistan shows not only the strength of the Taliban but also the weakness of local government institutions. Lack of economic progress, corruption, and incompetence of some local officials are behind a declining support for the government.

Reform implementation is another major challenge to the National Unity Government. Broad consensus is required to improve the rule of law, strengthen the protection of human rights, fight corruption, reform the electoral process and combat drug production and trafficking. In this context, the timely appointment of governors and advancing the electoral reform are necessary to enhance the confidence of citizens in the government and democratic process. As Afghanistan accounted for an estimated 85 percent of global opium production and 77 percent of global heroin production in 2014, it is imperative that the new National Drug Action Plan should have a tangible impact in tackling the drug challenge.

Mr. President,

Young and capable Afghans leaving the country is yet another troubling phenomenon. It causes an increasing “brain-drain” at a time when the best and most dedicated minds are particularly needed in Afghanistan. It also contributes to the migrant crisis in Europe and in other parts of the world and exposes those leaving to additional risks. We urge the National Unity Government to increase efforts aimed at creating employment and improving the business climate in the country, and thus enable Afghans to stay in Afghanistan and contribute to building a better future for their nation.

While a lot has been done in promoting the rights of women, being a woman in Afghanistan remains a challenging thing. Violence against women and girls continues to be widespread. Suffice to remember the case of Farkhunda, the Afghan woman who was brutally murdered by a Kabul mob on 19 March. The recently adopted National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 on women, peace and security is an important step to addressing some of the difficulties that Afghan women face. The plan should be vigorously implemented.  Women must be able to participate fully in all aspects of Afghanistan’s processes, including the peace efforts. Any future accord must retain all the major achievements of the past decade, including the increased protection of the rights of Afghan women.

Regional cooperation remains as important as ever in building a prosperous and peaceful Afghanistan. All the neighbouring countries have a stake in the stability of Afghanistan. Competing interests will not lead to any sustainable solution.

Mr. President,

Lithuania remains a firm partner of Afghanistan, a supporter and contributor in achieving its main goals. Our political, military and civilian support to Afghanistan, including for the development of Afghan National Security Forces and promoting regional initiatives, will continue.

Lithuania remains engaged in NATO-led Resolute Support Mission and continues its participation in the European Union Police Mission EUPOL. Given the recent spike in violence, there is an urgent need to discuss the further engagement of the international community in Afghanistan after 2016. We encourage the international community to continue assisting and supporting Afghanistan in a difficult path to build a secure and just future.

Lithuania commends UN’s work in assisting Afghans in laying the foundations for sustainable peace and development. The presence of UNAMA has been of crucial importance to the advancement of human rights, democratic processes and overall development of Afghanistan. UNAMA’s field presence in remote regions of the country is vital for achieving peace, self-reliance and growth in Afghanistan.

The primary responsibility for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan lies with the Afghans themselves. Lithuania stands ready to support their efforts.

I thank you.