The United States and several other countries issued a joint statement in which they expressed concern about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan after the Taliban seizure of power in the country.

Reported by Radio Liberty.

The statement, in addition to the United States, was signed by Australia, Albania, Argentina, Brazil, Great Britain, Guatemala, Honduras, the European Union, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, El Salvador, North Macedonia, Senegal, Chile, Switzerland, Ecuador.

" We call on those who are vested with power and authority throughout Afghanistan to guarantee their protection, " The statement also states the need to prevent any form of discrimination and harassment and that the international community is ready to provide humanitarian assistance and support so that the voices of women are heard..

Between 1996 and 2001, when the Taliban ruled the country, women were not allowed to roam the streets without being accompanied by a close male relative..

There were severe restrictions for women in education and employment.. They were required to wear a burka that completely covers the body.. For violation a woman could be executed.

Last week, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees noted that it is especially concerned about the fate of Afghan girls and women. Women and children are about 80 percent of the nearly quarter of a million Afghans who have fled since the end of May, according to the organization..