The war in Afghanistan has been going on for 40 years. The Afghan people have experienced uninterrupted suffering as a result of this war. Many Afghans have lost family members, some have become physically or mentally handicapped, and most Afghan citizens are also suffering economic consequences. All Afghans long for a lasting peace and joy in their homeland.

The holy fast of Ramadan is a month for reconciliation and peace, culminating in the Eid-ul-Fitr festival. Eid is supposed to be a time of joy.

So that the Afghan people can forget their suffering for at least a few days and not have to cry during these holy days, we call on the Taliban to lay down their weapons for at least 7 days, i.e. 2 days before, 3 days during, and 2 days after Eid.

We call on the Afghan Government to also cease fire against the Taliban during this same holy time. Afghan security forces should only respond in self-defence to attacks initiated by the Taliban.

By contrast, we do not call for a ceasefire against IS and other terrorist groups. The fight should continue uninterrupted against these groups.

On the occasion of this holy month of Ramadan and the upcoming Eid festival, we would like to send our congratulations to the Afghan people and the Taliban and hope that a lasting peace will be realized in our homeland as soon as possible.

Hayattullah Maiwand

1.Chairman of FDPA