Turkey proposes forming G20 working group on Afghanistan

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has proposed the creation of a working group on Afghanistan under the G20, noting that Turkey is ready to lead the working group.

"Ensuring security and stability in Afghanistan as soon as possible is of critical importance not only at the regional but also at the international level," Erdogan said , speaking at the G20 extraordinary meeting on Afghanistan, joining via video conference from Vahdettin Mansion in Istanbul on Tuesday.

He underlined that regardless of the political process, there is a need to show strong solidarity with the Afghan people due to the deepening humanitarian crisis in the country.

"This is a global issue and we need to adopt a global vision within G20. I believe we need to establish a working group to tackle these issues," said Erdogan.

"The international community does not have the luxury of turning its back on the Afghan people and leaving this country to its own fate," he added.

READ MORE: What’s next for Turkey - Afghanistan relations after the Taliban takeover?

Solidarity with Afghans

Erdogan stressed that Turkey will continue to fulfil its "duty of brotherhood" for the Afghan people in these difficult days.

On the eve of the Taliban’s capture of Kabul on August 15, the Afghan president and other top officials left the country. The group has formed an interim government headed by Mohammad Hasan Akhund.

World powers have called on the group to form an inclusive government that is representative of the country's ethnic diversity.

Erdogan said the leaders must continue to direct the Taliban towards establishing an inclusive system.

EAD MORE: Erdogan: Taliban’s current approach, interim government not inclusive

Immigration pressure

He also drew attention to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the country, urging G20 leaders to focus on immigration efforts for the thousands of Afghans who have been displaced. 

"Turkish Red Crescent sent 33 tonnes of food aid to Afghanistan and we are also working on a comprehensive humanitarian relief package," said Erdogan. 

"At difficult times like this, it is incumbent on us to exhibit solidarity with the people of Afghanistan," he added referencing recent terrorist attacks that have taken place in the country.

However, with 3.6 million Syrian refugees already residing in Turkey, Erdogan said the country cannot afford another influx of immigrants.

"The pressure of immigration from the south and from the east that Turkey will face will also mean that European countries will also be affected by this trend," said Erdogan.

READ MORE: Erdogan: Turkey can't handle Afghan refugee burden for EU