RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister on Wednesday said the Kingdom supported the people of Afghanistan during a “crucial stage” in their history, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan said the Kingdom also supports the choices that the Afghan people make regarding the future of their country, away from external interference. 

The foreign minister said Saudi Arabia hopes the Taliban and all Afghan parties will work to maintain peace and security and protect the lives and property of civilians.

The Kingdom also hopes that the formation of a caretaker government will be a step in the right direction toward achieving security and stability, the rejection of violence and extremism, and building a bright future, he said.

He added that the Kingdom places high importance on supporting ways through which Afghanistan can overcome its current challenges.

Prince Faisal made the comments at a virtual meeting of officials from 22 countries as well as NATO, the European Union and the UN the day after the Taliban announced their interim government.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his German counterpart Heiko Maas hosted the meeting.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced an interim government after seizing control of the country last month.