The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has marked the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan with a video message, describing it as a sacred period of reflection, prayer, hope, and peace for Muslims around the world.

In his remarks, Guterres said Ramadan represents a noble vision rooted in compassion, solidarity, and unity. However, he noted that for millions across the globe, this vision remains distant due to ongoing conflict, hunger, displacement, and discrimination. He specifically referenced the suffering of people in Afghanistan, Yemen, Gaza, Sudan, and other crisis-affected regions.

The UN chief urged the international community to uphold the enduring message of Ramadan by bridging divisions, extending help and hope to those in need, and protecting the rights and dignity of every individual.

Guterres also highlighted his long-standing tradition of visiting Muslim communities during Ramadan and joining them in fasting, saying the month’s spirit of peace and compassion continues to inspire him each year.

He concluded by expressing hope that Ramadan would motivate people worldwide to work together toward building a more peaceful, generous, and just world for all, ending his message with the greeting, “Ramadan Kareem.”

Japan continues direct communications with Islamic Emirate officials through its Kabul embassy, despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, Kenichi Masamoto, Japanese Ambassador to Kabul, told Ariana News in an exclusive interview.

Masamoto noted that no final decision has yet been made regarding the future of Afghanistan’s embassy in Tokyo.

“At present, there are no official diplomatic relations, and certain restrictions exist,” he said. “However, we are working to find appropriate channels for dialogue and engagement. The Afghan Embassy in Tokyo had been managed by diplomats of the former government appointed under the previous Republic. Following discussions with Japanese authorities, it was agreed that the embassy would close at the end of January, and this has now been completed. No final decisions have been made regarding future arrangements.”

The ambassador emphasized that progress in the Doha process could help end Afghanistan’s isolation and open the door to broader international engagement with the Islamic Emirate. “As a member of the international community, this process will also create more opportunities for Japan to engage with Afghanistan,” he said.

Masamoto stressed the international community’s concern over the ongoing suspension of secondary and higher education for girls, noting that Japan shares this concern. “Girls’ education is critical for Afghanistan’s future. This is not only the position of the international community—it is also in the best interest of Afghanistan’s future. The international community wants this suspension to end as soon as possible,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Japan will continue to support the Afghan people, focusing on humanitarian aid and the provision of basic needs through the United Nations. The ambassador highlighted that Tokyo has stood by the Afghan people during difficult times and will continue to do so.

The Afghan Embassy in Japan officially closed at the end of January 2026.

Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, Minister of Interior Affairs, says the officials of the Islamic Emirate have repeatedly emphasized that the security of Afghanistan is the security of the region and the world.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the sixth professional police course, Haqqani stated that insecurity in the region is insecurity for the entire world.

He added: “Neighbors, the region, and the world must adopt strategies and policies that contribute to the stability of Afghanistan.”

Addressing the police officers, Haqqani said: “The foundation of this system was built on piety and sacrifice. Instead of promoting oneself, all attention should be given to the values of the system.”

He advised them: “We should raise our ethical capacity to such a level that our ethics influence the areas related to our duties.”

He further stated that officers equipped with Islamic belief and professional training are capable of providing valuable services to the people.

The Minister of Interior Affairs emphasized the role of the police in maintaining security, preventing crime, and strengthening the system, adding that the professionalization of the police is of fundamental importance for the country’s stability.

Sirajuddin Haqqani described the qualities of an Islamic police officer as piety, professionalism, and dedication, stressing that ensuring security is only possible through professional and disciplined police.

He also noted that education and ethical standards must be prioritized, because the improper behavior of individuals can damage the public’s trust in the system.

He urged the police to, with piety, good conduct toward the people, and law enforcement, uphold the principles of public service in their work, so that the trust and cooperation of the people are further strengthened.