For Immediate Release

Office of Press Relations
press@usaid.gov

Readout

The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:

Today, Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman met with United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) for Afghanistan Roza Otunbayeva to discuss U.S. policies and goals in Afghanistan, as well as ongoing assistance vital to the future of the Afghan people.

Deputy Administrator Coleman and SRSG Otunbayeva discussed how to ensure the successful delivery of assistance that meets critical basic needs. They underscored the need to find durable solutions for vulnerable Afghans, especially women and girls. Deputy Administrator Coleman and SRSG Otunbayeva expressed deep concern about the growing restrictions the Taliban are placing on women in the workplace and education for girls beyond grade six, as well as other restrictions on human rights. Deputy Administrator Coleman reinforced the limitations that the Taliban will face if they continue to roll back access for all members of society to health care, education, and livelihoods.

Deputy Administrator Coleman and SRSG Otunbayeva emphasized that increased reports of intimidation and violence by the Taliban against humanitarian workers, especially female aid workers, are extremely worrisome as the deteriorating security situation can obstruct essential support flows to the most vulnerable people of Afghanistan.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to close U.S. and UNAMA cooperation to ensure essential support reaches the Afghan people and to advocate for upholding and respecting women and girls’ rights.

Afghanistan Isobel Coleman
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