AT
Kabul: Afghanistan’s membership at the United Nations faces a significant setback as its voting rights within the General Assembly are suspended over outstanding dues. Mr. Nasir Faiq, acting as Afghanistan’s representative, disclosed that failure to settle membership fees since the Taliban’s assumption of power in August 2021 has led to this action, in accordance with the organization’s regulations. Consequently, Afghanistan was unable to participate in the recent General Assembly vote concerning the recognition of the State of Palestine.
Previously, the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs had diligently fulfilled these financial obligations, ensuring the country’s active participation in UN proceedings. However, the current circumstance highlights a shift, with Afghanistan now among six nations, including Ecuador and Venezuela, facing repercussions for neglecting their dues for two consecutive years.
Faiq emphasized that the annual membership fees for UN countries stand at approximately two hundred thousand dollars. This recent development underscores the broader financial strain facing Afghanistan since the Taliban’s ascendancy to power.