The IEA's spokesman, Zabiullah Mujahid, criticized the Council for concentrating on what they deemed "minor" domestic issues, particularly women's education and employment.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Mujahid argued that the discussions failed to address crucial matters that are essential for Afghanistan's future. He highlighted that the focus should have been on topics such as general security, general amnesty, peace and stability, economic development, the formation of security forces, budget preparation from internal revenue, and the transfer of the UN seat to the IEA.

Mujahid's statement suggested that the absence of these vital topics from the discussion indicated an undue emphasis on politics, which, according to him, reflected the interests of certain groups that are still in conflict with the IEA. He went further to accuse these groups of using the United Nations organization against Afghanistan.

Mujahid emphasized that the people of Afghanistan are supportive of their current system and emirate, placing high value on their religious teachings and national interests. He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Afghan youths in pursuit of these objectives and vowed to protect and care for them.

This statement from the IEA comes in the wake of comments made by UN Special Representative for Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva, who urged the international community to maintain engagement with IEA leaders in Afghanistan despite significant disagreements over women's rights and governance inclusivity. Otunbayeva also acknowledged the pervasive lack of trust among all parties but affirmed that the doors to dialogue remain open. (ILKHA)