KABUL: Defense Minister, Mawlavi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, stated that freedom is a fundamental principle of human life and that Afghans do not want to be dependent on or influenced by foreign countries in economic, security, or other areas.
Speaking at a ceremony organized by the Ministry of Defense to mark the 107th anniversary of Afghanistan’s Independence, Mujahid said foreign occupiers had previously attempted to undermine Afghanistan by creating ethnic and regional divisions but failed to achieve their objectives.
He called on Afghans to remain united in confronting the country’s challenges and said Afghanistan seeks relations with the international community based on mutual respect.
Mujahid added that efforts are underway to train and equip Afghanistan’s defense forces with modern air and ground capabilities, stressing that Afghanistan has not invaded any other country.
He also said countries that describe Afghanistan as a threat are often doing so to serve their own interests.
The defense minister emphasized that national unity can help counter negative propaganda against Afghanistan and said further changes and developments are expected across various sectors in the future.