Islam Karimov: No military solution for Afghan problem

Speaking at the CIS leaders’ summit in Kazakhstan, Islam Karimov said: “"The current situation in Afghanistan, where the fratricidal war has already been going on for over 35 years, may be described as inactive stand-off by opposing forces. The latest events around the bordering town of Konduz located near Tajikistan, have revealed complete, I emphasize, complete lack of coordination and inaction by the authorities.”

Uzbek leader said that regrouping of gangs from south to north and north-east Afghanistan also causes deep concern and anxiety. Recent attempts of Taliban to capture certain parts of the country indicate that the movement still has considerable military potential. At the same time, the Afghan army is not able to independently confront the Taliban, while the government - to fully control the security situation in the country, he added.

“Given the current situation in Afghanistan, in order not to repeat the bitter experience of Iraq, a growing number of analysts are inclined to think about increasing the number of troops ISAF whose presence in Afghanistan should be extended for several more years. And there are serious grounds ", - he stressed.

Uzbek President said that in any situation in Afghanistan, there is no military solution for Afghan problem and confronting groupings should hold peace negotiations under the UN. There is simply no other way, he said.