Ghani to revive Silk Road with China

FAIZABAD (Pajhwok): Presidential runner Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai on Thursday said he would work to revive the ancient Silk Road with China and turn it into the world’s leading transit route.

Ahmadzai was addressing a gathering of thousands of supporters in Faizabad, the capital of northeastern Badakhshan province.

He said the Afghan part of the Silk Road began from Baharak district in Badakhshan and passed through Wardoj and Shakasham districts into China.

The front-line presidential hopeful said an improved capacity of Afghan army was among his priorities.

On job opportunities for the youth and women, Ahmadzai said: “The women of Badakhshan have the capacity to contribute greatly to the country’s rebuilding. But they are not interested in working outside the home due to unnecessary cultural restrictions.”

This was Ahmadzai’s first campaign rally in Badakhshan since the election campaign began a month back.

Mohammad Naeem, a supporter, told Pajhwok Afghan News people should support Ahmadzai for his clear programmes regarding the country’s development.

He suggested other presidential candidates should address gatherings in Badakhshan and explain future plans and strategies.

Elsewhere, presidential candidate Abdul Rab Rassoul Sayyaf’s second vice-presidential pick Maulvi Abdul Wahab Irfan told a gathering in Takhar province they would implement Islamic law in all areas of the government.

Law implementation and fighting corruption would be their top priorities and their focus would be on having a strong security during the first six months of their government, if won, Irfan said.

“We know from where the terrorists come and who support them. We will control terrorism and militancy,” he vowed.

mds/rm/ma

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