Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
I'd like to thank the witnesses for being here today.
I want to start by expressing my deep sympathy for the people of Afghanistan and the Hazara community on the recent earthquakes that have happened in Afghanistan. I know that it must feel like the world is looking elsewhere at the moment and is not recognizing the death and destruction that we are seeing in Afghanistan. I'm deeply sorry for that.
I also want to acknowledge the impact of Pakistan's deportation on Afghans, on the Hazara people and on Afghan refugees who are fleeing violence. I know that this is more impactful on those who are being persecuted under the Taliban regime. I don't want you to think that people in Afghanistan have been forgotten, because you have not been.
My first question is for you, sir.
You just talked about the need to call out the genocidal actions of the Taliban and the genocide that is happening against the Hazara people. I'm worried, because I don't have the same optimism that you have expressed that the Taliban is listening to us. We have seen constant attacks on women's rights and on minority groups like the Hazaras. There have been violent murders and behaviour by the Taliban towards minority groups.
Why do you think they are listening or paying attention? Can you give me some more hope, please, that this is the case?