‘Impossible’ to Ensure Peace with Presence of Foreign Forces: Hekmatyar

Addressing a press conference in Kabul, Hekmatyar said that the current “imposed” government is the main reason for the continuation of the war in Afghanistan, adding that NUG is not able to ensure peace in the country.
Hekmatyar stressed that in order to ensure peace in Afghanistan, the two main issues including the presence of foreign forces and the current “dependent” government should be addressed.
He also noted that foreign forces need to withdraw. and that the government needs to be independent and not be tied to another country or installed by a foreign country.
 The Presidential Palace did not comment in this regard despite repeated attempts by Ariana News.
Separately, Hekmatyar said that the Consultative Loya Jirga which is scheduled to be held on March 17, would not resolve the problems in the country but will cause more problems.
He said the government should agree on establishment of another strong address in which the important national issues could be discussed.
In addition, Hekmatyar said that the Taliban need to agree on a long term ceasefire and the government should also support and observe it.
The leader of Hezb-e-Islami, meanwhile, noted that election is the only way for power to be handed over to a new administration and that government should end meddling in the electoral system.