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I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission (UNAMA) in Afghanistan Mr. Nicholas Haysom for the briefing. Lithuania aligns itself with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union and its Member States. Mr. President, As of 1st of January Afghanistan has opened a new chapter in its history. Afghan people have entered the Transformation Decade with fully assumed responsibility for their security, first peaceful and democratic transition of power and first ever National Unity Government. Nonetheless, further perseverance from the Afghan authorities is critically needed as the situation in the country remains volatile and a number of formidable challenges loom.

The first and foremost task is to strengthen Afghanistan’s ailing economy, which poses a threat to the stability and affects Government's capacity to deliver administrative functions and services. In this view we strongly encourage President Ghani and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah to press ahead with good governance and other relevant reforms. The roadmap for the way ahead is clearly agreed upon, most notably in the Tokyo Mutual Accountability Framework and recent Afghanistan Government’s paper on reform programme “Realizing Self-Reliance” In particular, Afghan authorities must step up the fight against corruption, illicit economy, in particular boosting counter-narcotics efforts, public fund embezzlement and significantly improve revenue collection while simultaneously developing economic sectors – especially agriculture, mining and services.

Secondly, ensuring security remains to be yet another daunting task for the Afghan Government. 2014 and first months of this year were marked with record numbers of incidents and casualties of civilians, including women and children. Almost every day Afghan forces are challenged by the insurgency activities, armed clashes, targeted killings and suicide attacks. We commend the resolve of Afghan National Security Forces in thwarting attacks by anti-Government elements. However, the continued international assistance to further develop Afghan security forces and institutions remains essential. In this regard, we believe that the new NATO non-combat, training, advisory and assistance mission is another important contribution. But beyond that, the appalling human cost borne by ordinary Afghans, underscores the necessity for an inclusive peaceful resolution to the conflict. In this context we welcome President Ghani’s leadership in calling for Afghan-to-Afghan dialogue and building closer relations with its neighbours, particularly Pakistan. We welcome the new Administration’s increased emphasis on regional dialogue and cooperation.

Thirdly, to sustain an impressive advancement on development achieved since 2001, Afghanistan has to continue the meaningful progress on human and, in particular, women’s rights. We call on Afghan authorities to deliver on their promises to advance the position of women and girls in political, economic, and social life, including appointing women ministers and urgently developing a strategy to fully implement the Elimination of Violence Against Women law, including services to victims and access to justice. The United Nations has repeatedly raised concerns over the illegal practice of arresting and prosecuting women for so called moral crimes. The human rights and gender issues need a special focus in Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process. The December 2014 meeting of Chief Executive Officer Abdullah with the Heads of the Provincial Peace Committees encouraging greater participation of women in the peace process is a positive step.

Lastly, my delegation commends Mr. Ghani and Mr. Abdullah for their leadership and spirit of compromise and urges the political leaders to quickly conclude the process of a merit-based appointment and approval of senior Government officials. Likewise, a swift electoral reform is needed so that it could take effect prior to the Wolesi Jirga and District Council elections envisaged for 2015.

Mr. President,

Notwithstanding the support of international community, the primary responsibility of the future of Afghanistan lies with the Afghans themselves. The reform programme and commitments presented by the Afghan Unity Government are encouraging. Lithuania stands ready to support its efforts by continuing to be committed to the political, military and civilian support to Afghanistan, including participation in Resolute Support Mission, EU Police Mission and United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan as well as contribution to the Afghan National Army Trust Fund. The interaction, synergies and close cooperation among the United Nations, the EU, and NATO are of great importance while continuing our efforts for durable peace and reconciliation processes, stabilization and development of the country.

My delegation expresses appreciation to the Spanish Permanent Mission for the draft resolution on UNAMA mandate extension for one year and the efficient facilitation of the negotiating process. The continuous presence and role of UNAMA and other United Nations agencies, including at provincial level, remain crucial for the development of Afghanistan and the benefit of each and every Afghan.

I thank you.