British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the United Nations to play a pivotal role in the humanitarian response in Afghanistan and mastermind negotiations to determine future of the nation. The premiership said in a statement that Johnson made the call during a phone contact with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, focusing on Afghanistan namely ongoing efforts and operations to evacuate people from the country. He stressed that the UN must be central to both the humanitarian response to the situation in Afghanistan and international negotiations over the future of the country, and pledged the UK’s support in that effort, the official statement said. The secretary-general was updated about the concerning situation on the ground and the challenges faced by humanitarian workers. They agreed that securing the progress made in the last 20 years on development and civil society was vital, and the international community must ensure the rights of women, girls and ethnic minorities are protected. Moreover, they agreed to continue working closely together in the coming days, including through the UN Security Council. —KUNA