Russia, China, and India must replace the U.S. and NATO in Afghanistan - Hamid Karzai

Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai, speaking on June 25 in Moscow, said that U.S. and NATO forces were not able to actually solve the set task: “The military intervention has not brought security to the Afghan people. The United States and its allies must speak frankly about the existing problems, explaining the reasons for their failure, and making it clear why the attacks continue. They should seek the help of countries such as Russia and China, which can make a difference.”

Speaking about the role of the Russian Federation, Mr. Karzai said that Moscow has no choice but to participate in the fight against extremism: “Events in Afghanistan have a direct impact on Russia. The threat of terrorism is common to both countries. Countering extremism in Afghanistan – is in the interests of both countries… the distant United States and Russia, which also cannot remain aloof.”

According to the politician, “a strong Russia is an important factor for stability in Afghanistan.” “When the Soviet Union collapsed, there was a vacuum formed in Afghanistan, which was filled with hostile forces,” said Mr. Karzai.

He added that only through the efforts of all countries in the region would the problem of extremism be solved. “Afghanistan will achieve stability when our powerful neighbors – Russia, India, and China – will become involved in the process,” said Mr. Karzai.

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