Despite the challenges facing the Kabul-Washington Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA), Minister of Foreign Affairs Zarar Ahmad Usmani expressed optimism for a postiive outcome from negotiations between the U.S. and Afghanistan.
Usmani reemphasized that the fate of the BSA came down to whether or not the President Hamid Karzai’s preconditions are met by the U.S. Karzai has demanded the U.S. get Taliban peace talks back on track and end all unilateral raids on Afghan homes.
Many have criticized Karzai for his uncompromising approach to the deal, a security arrangement that many thing is essential to keeping the NATO-backed government in Kabul afloat after coalition troops leave the country in December.
“Without a doubt, Afghanistan needs the support of the United States and the people of Afghanistan want the support,” Usmani said. “We hope that talks will end with a positive result and the agreement will be signed.”
Despite a Loya Jirga approving the BSA back in November, Karzai has appeared increasingly less likely to sign the pact. The Afghan President has lashed out publically against the U.S. and flouted Washington’s requests to reevaluate a recent decision to release some 65 prisoners from Bagram prison.
Nevertheless, as Usmani did on Sunday, many Afghan and American officials have reaffirmed their optimism that a deal will be signed. Whether or not it will be finalized before the April Presidential elections in Afghanistan remains to be seen.
The Foreign Minister’s comments came at a press conference with the Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Erian Abdyldaev. The two top diplomats met to inaugurate the new Kyrgyz Embassy in Kabul as well as to sign three political and trade agreements.
“We will continue our support in the areas of trade, economic, transport, energy, education, health and all other spheres,” Abdyldaev said.
Tolonews
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