22 June 2018
Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR Japan)
Japan International Volunteer Center (JVC)
Karez Health and Educational Services (KHES)
Peace Winds Japan (PWJ)
Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA)
We are Japanese NGO engaged in the support of Afghanistan together with the people of Afghanistan. Welcoming the first ceasefire between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban, and as people were able to feel the hope for peace that the ceasefire brought about, we will continue seeking peace in Afghanistan and we request for the following:
About extension of ceasefire
We welcome the ceasefire which was realized for the first time between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban. We express our respect to the decisions made by both parties to achieve the first ceasefire which had never been realized before by overcoming various challenges. We could see soldiers of both sides and people delighted everywhere. It is also reported that citizens stood between the Government and the Taliban, so that both sides could exchange their opinions for peace. It is clear that people are eager for peace. We welcome the Government’s announcement of further extension of the ceasefire and hope it will be accepted by the Taliban. We also request that those concerned, concerned countries and the international community including the Japanese Government will support this and take all the necessary actions to extend it.
About cessation of violence
While joys of ceasefire were observed, there were attacks seemingly targeting a ceasefire celebration and a related gathering, causing many casualties including civilians. We pray for the souls of those who have passed away and express our sincere condolences to their families, relatives and friends. We condemn such violence and demand immediate cessation of violence. We also request that those concerned, concerned countries and the international community including the Japanese Government will take all the necessary actions to stop violence.
About the progress of the peace process
As organizations working with people of Afghanistan, rooted in the community, we have experienced fist hand that violence brings about only sadness and anger. Violence cannot solve problems. Alongside the ceasefire of this time, we request to all parties of the conflict to make progress on the peace process. We also request that those concerned, concerned countries and the international community including the Japanese government will take all the necessary actions for the progress on the peace process.
We wish for peace with people of Afghanistan.
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