Jusuf Kalla's Afghanistan Visit Highlights Gender Equality and Development

Photo source: Tim Media JK

Jakarta, Sunday, June 2, 2024 - Dr. (H.C.) H. M. Jusuf Kalla, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), is currently on a special mission in Afghanistan. This visit marks his latest engagement with the country.

In late 2020, Jusuf Kalla, commonly known as JK, visited Afghanistan at the invitation of the then-government led by Ashraf Ghani. Arief Rachman, the Indonesian Ambassador to Afghanistan at the time, noted that JK's presence was highly anticipated to help foster peace in the region.

A year later, in August 2021, the Taliban seized control of the Afghan government. By June 2024, JK returned to Afghanistan to observe the changes firsthand.

JK is scheduled to remain in Kabul until June 5, 2024, with several key meetings on his agenda. On his first day, he met with Afghanistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mullah Amir Khan Muttaqi, and the 2nd Deputy Prime Minister, Abdul Salam Hanafi. Both officials extended a warm welcome to JK and his entourage.

In his discussions with Afghan authorities, JK underscored the importance of gender equality and economic issues. He addressed the widespread stigma surrounding women's rights in Afghanistan, asserting that it was unfounded.

"We discussed education for women, which will be implemented step by step. This is crucial, and we are willing, along with several other countries, to assist with women's education. Their constitution allows it, but it will be realized gradually," JK emphasized. JK's entourage included Hamid Awaludin, Sudirman Said, Husain Abdullah, and his grandson, Emir Thaqib Wilangkoro.

The changes in Kabul, as noted by JK, have been significant due to a relatively peaceful transition of power. Today, Kabul appears more open and vibrant. "People are free to walk, shops are open. I was also surprised to see that. At the airport, there were lots of flights," JK remarked.

Jusuf Kalla is visiting Afghanistan in his capacity as the Chairman of the Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI) and the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI). Reflecting on his 2020 visit, JK expressed surprise at the substantial changes he observed upon his return.

During his visit, JK noted improved infrastructure and a more open environment where both men and women were seen walking freely, indicating a significant shift towards peace and openness.

Source: https://news.detik.com/berita/d-7370672/jk-surprised-lihat-afghanistan-saat-ini-kenapa

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