Afghans must not rely on foreigners to rebuild their country: Deputy PM Hanafi

Abdul Salam Hanafi, Administrative Deputy of the Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), on Wednesday called on Afghans to depend on their own capacities rather than expecting foreign nations to develop or rebuild the country. Citing past experiences, he warned that relying on external actors has only brought destruction and instability to Afghanistan.

Hanafi made the remarks during a ceremony held to honor the top ten performers of Afghanistan’s 1404 (2025) Kankor examinations — the national university entrance tests — for both religious and general education tracks.

In his address to the students, Hanafi emphasized the vital role of youth in shaping the nation’s future. “The future of Afghanistan belongs to you,” he said. “Strive to become contributors to the nation’s progress and take an active role in rebuilding our homeland.”

He further stressed the country’s growing need for skilled and dedicated professionals across various sectors.

Afghanistan now, more than ever, needs committed and qualified individuals, he stated adding that the Islamic Emirate is fully committed to mobilizing all available resources to support the academic and professional development of the country’s young generation.