IBSA leaders express support for a democratic, pluralistic and stable Afghanistan

Pretoria, Oct 18 (ANI): Expressing support for a democratic, pluralistic and stable Afghanistan, IBSA leaders on Tuesday acknowledged the need for continued international assistance to further enable the Afghan National Security Forces to guarantee Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and stability.

South African President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff met here on Tuesday for the fifth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Dialogue Forum.

The leaders emphasized the need for the international community to maintain its commitment to render assistance to the Government and people of Afghanistan in ensuring security and development, whose interdependence is key to stability and sustainable peace. The only way to lasting peace is through dialogue.

IBSA leaders expressed the view that without good governance and a long-term commitment to support economic development; security gains will not be sustainable.

International cooperation is also needed to further strengthen Afghanistan's capacity to deliver public goods to its citizens. Leaders also expressed support for the principle of national ownership and leadership in the transition processes, Tshwane Declaration states.

The leaders of the three nations also voiced their firm support to the government of Afghanistan to lead efforts to advance the process of reconciliation and reintegration, which should be inclusive and transparent, and where those reintegrated renounce violence, eschew links with all terrorist groups and fully respect the National Constitution.

This Summit took place at a critical time globally, when the world economy is faced with serious challenges and where democracy is being sought after in areas such as the Middle East and North Africa.

Leaders of the three countries acknowledged the importance of the IBSA Dialogue Forum as an instrument to promote coordination on global issues, pertinently during the historic occasion of 2011, when all IBSA Member States serve as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. (ANI)