Thank you, Mr. President. 

Today, the Council has acted to preserve UNAMA as a lifeline for the people of Afghanistan. The United States fully supports UNAMA, and its mission and we are proud to support a one-year extension of UNAMA’s mandate.  

UNAMA is critical to working toward the peace and stability that we all agree is so important for Afghanistan and the world. With the extension of UNAMA’s mandate, the UN will be able to continue its important work to restore Afghans’ ability to exercise their human rights, especially those of women and girls and members of minority communities.   

It is more important than ever that UNAMA emphasize this work. UNAMA will also continue to address a widespread humanitarian emergency and economic crisis, promote peace and stability, and facilitate dialogue among all relevant Afghan political actors and stakeholders. 

The Council’s action today is timely, particularly amid Women’s History Month, and as we convene the 67th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. The Council’s action directly supports the empowerment of women and girls, their human rights and fundamental freedoms, and their full, equal, and meaningful participation in all levels and stages of decision-making.

The United States commends the incredible work done by UNAMA’s staff on the ground. UNAMA staff operate in deteriorating security conditions throughout the country. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of UNAMA’s staff. We are committed to ensuring the UN is able to take steps to protect them and their families. 

Today and every day, the United States stands firmly in support of the UN’s work to support peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan and to advance respect for all Afghans’ human rights and fundamental freedoms.   

Thank you, Mr. President. 

Original source can be found here.