Russia, China abstain from UNSC resolution to ensure Afghanistan does not turn into terror safe haven

The United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution on Afghanistan which aims to prevent Afghan territory from being used by terrorists and combat terrorism, including those designated by the United Nations. 

Under India's presidency, the resolution was moved by the permanent members, including the United States, the United Kingdom and France. 

While 13 member nations voted in favour of the resolution, Russia and China abstained from voting.

Thanking all members for the support and cooperation during its tenure as the UNSC chair which ended on Monday, India said that August has been a busy month for UNSC with key issues such as Afghanistan, maritime security, Middle East, Myanmar, Syria and Yemen.

Chairing the session, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said that the resolution on Afghanistan was of direct importance to India as underlines terrorists and terror entities designated by UNSC. 

He reiterated that Afghan territory should not be used to threaten, attack any country or shelter, finance or train terrorists.  

Stressing upon the need for safe passage of people and to take necessary steps in its engagement with Afghanistan, Shringla said the latest resolution realises the importance of the rights of women and minorities, particularly Sikh and Hindu minorities. 

The foreign secretary said that evacuating Afghan nationals, including minorities, who wanted to leave Afghanistan was an important part of New Delhi's efforts.

Speaking during the session, the US representative said that the resolution put across clear expectations regarding the future of Afghanistan. 

UNSC expects the Taliban to live up to its commitment to facilitate safe passage for Afghans and foreigners who want to leave Afghanistan, he said.

However, the Chinese representative has alleged that its amendments were not adopted. 

The Chinese representative said Beijing had major doubts about the intent and urgency to adopt this resolution. 

Claiming that it had, along with Russia, taken part in consultations and put forward important and reasonable amendments, China claimed its amendments had not been fully adopted. 

The Chinese representative went on to say that his country opposed forceful pushing for a resolution by any sponsor.

Meanwhile, the Taliban has said that the US forces have left Afghanistan after occupation for 20 years. US Central Command chief Gen Kenneth McKenzie confirmed some Americans and eligible Afghans were unable to get to the airport in time to get aboard the final flights out.

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• Afghanistan
• China
• Russia
• UNSC resolution
• Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla
• India at UNSC
• terrorism