Ambassador Haidari Attends U.S. Department of State Reception Honoring Afghan Women Leaders
By Staff Writer
Ambassador M. Ashraf Haidari, DI Founder and President, attended a U.S. Department of State reception on “Partnerships in Action: Honoring Our Commitment to Afghan Women Leaders.” Hosted by Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Geeta Rao Gupta, the event reaffirmed the United States’ steadfast commitment to the rights and leadership of Afghan women and girls.
The reception featured powerful remarks from Ambassador Rao Gupta, Special Envoy for Afghan Women and Girls Rina Amiri, and a young Afghan woman leader. All speakers condemned the gender apartheid policies enforced by the Taliban in Afghanistan, describing them as a blatant violation of fundamental human rights and international norms.
Ambassador Haidari expressed gratitude to Ambassador Rao Gupta and Special Envoy Amiri for their tireless advocacy for Afghan women’s rights during their tenure. “Your unwavering dedication to safeguarding the dignity and future of Afghan women inspires us all,” Haidari said. He also wished them success in their future endeavors.
Conversations with Displaced Afghan Leaders
During the event, Ambassador Haidari engaged with several Afghan displaced leaders, including former parliamentarians, ministers, diplomats, and civil society activists. He acknowledged the significant support the American people have extended to Afghan evacuees since 2021, emphasizing the critical role of such assistance in addressing the humanitarian crisis.
“The forced displacement of Afghans stems not only from violence and poverty but also from the Taliban’s oppressive gender apartheid decrees and edicts,” Haidari noted. He highlighted the displacement of eight million Afghans, including thousands of women and girls seeking safety and education opportunities in neighboring countries such as Pakistan and Iran. Many displaced Afghan families spend their life savings to ensure their daughters can access education, while others dream of resettling in developed countries for a secure future.
Call to Action
As part of DI’s ongoing efforts, Ambassador Haidari urged global action to halt the forced deportation of Afghan refugees, especially women and girls, from Pakistan. He calls on Afghan women’s supporters worldwide to sign and share DI’s humanitarian petition aimed at protecting Afghan refugees. “Now is the time to stand united for Afghan women and girls who continue to face unimaginable hardships,” Haidari said. For more information and to join DI’s global advocacy efforts, visit DI’s website to sign the petition. Together, we can champion the rights and dignity of Afghan women and girls.
