June 5, 2021
KABUL: Violence must stop and peace talks should move from procedures to substantial negotiations, the European Union’s new special envoy Tomas Niklasson said on Friday, reaffirming continued support to the Afghan people and the government.
“As the troops are withdrawing, the EU’s intention is to stay in Afghanistan -- continuing our support to the people,” he said. “The violence must stop and the peace talks must move from discussions on procedures to substantial negotiations. I would be happy the day sanctions on the Taliban could be lifted.
“For that to happen, we need to see significant progress in the peace process and a stop to violence.” Talking to the media, the EU special envoy said that he has grave concerns over a dramatic surge in the level of civilian casualties.