NAM should play a more active role in Afghanistan

 (Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - During the recent summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran assumed the rotating presidency of the movement, which it will retain for the next three years.This will definitely raise Iran’s diplomatic profile, and the Iranian foreign policy apparatus will have more opportunities to expand Iran’s influence across the world.Iran’s presidency will also help NAM play a more effective role in dealing with international issues. Many members of the movement, such as Libya, Somalia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Bahrain, Syria, and Pakistan, are currently suffering from Western and NATO-led aggression, and Iran can use its diplomatic and military influence to help end the aggression against these countries.Afghanistan is a special case which necessitates more attention from NAM, especially due to its serious security situation. Afghans have suffered greatly due to wars and extremism, and the nearly 11 years of occupation by NATO forces and the Taliban insurgency have devastated Afghanistan’s already weak economy and infrastructure. Western governments have repeatedly promised to help the Afghan government in its efforts to make the transition to political and economic stability, but none of their pledges have been fulfilled.NAM can be a good replacement for the United States and NATO in Afghanistan, and neighboring Iran, as the president of the movement, can effectively help Afghans in their journey toward prosperity.The training of the Afghan military and police should also be put on NAM’s agenda since the country lacks trained and educated forces to fight against the insurgents. In addition, NAM members should support Afghanistan’s education system by providing funding for graduate and post-graduate courses for Afghan students and establishing on-the-job training programs. There is a huge capacity to educate Afghan students and the Afghan workforce in Iran as well as other NAM member states.NAM’s active participation in Afghanistan would certainly reduce regional and international concerns about the security situation in the country. It would also provide a very good opportunity for Iran to increase stability on its eastern border.Mohsen Pakayin is the chairman of the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Special Committee on Afghanistan.