New York, September 25 — On the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly, the fourth meeting of the Regional Quartet — comprising Russia, China, Iran, and Pakistan — was held to discuss the Afghan issue. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also attended the session.

During the meeting, the participating countries reviewed the current situation in Afghanistan and reiterated their resolve that the country must emerge as an independent, sovereign, and peaceful state — free from terrorism, war, and drugs.

The parties underscored the urgent need for constructive and pragmatic engagement by the international community with Kabul in order to strengthen Afghan statehood and promote both regional and global stability.

At the conclusion of the quadrilateral meeting, a Joint Statement was issued, highlighting the importance of collective cooperation for Afghanistan’s future and regional security.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s Opening Remarks:

Colleagues, we are pleased to welcome you. Our meeting was originally scheduled for September 24 at the Permanent Mission of Russia to the United Nations, but due to unforeseen circumstances, we are meeting here today.

We expect to exchange assessments on the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan. Our dialogue has always been productive, and I am confident that today we will once again share views and outline the next steps ahead.”*