The countries of Central and South Asia can only fully benefit from potential opportunities if the region at large is at peace, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said, underlining that the promise of connectivity itself should become a “counterbalance” to the threat of further deterioration in war-torn Afghanistan. “Connectivity is central to trade, economic growth and sustainable development. “Enhanced connectivity that is environmentally sustainable and based on the rule of law can contribute to building long-term peace, stability and prosperity in Central and South Asia. He said the countries of Central and South Asia can only fully benefit from potential opportunities if the region at large is at peace. The Taliban, a fundamentalist Islamist militia, was evicted from power by the U.S.-led forces in 2001 after the 9/11 terror attacks.

Source: The Hindu July 17, 2021 06:54 UTC