NEW YORK — US Secretary of State Antony Blinken convened Thursday with Foreign Ministers of the People's Republic of China, the French Republic, the Russian Federation, and the United Kingdom in their capacity as permanent members (P5) of the UN Security Council.

During the meeting, Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of constructive P5 action to maintain international peace and security.

“During yesterday’s meeting with the UN Security Council’s P5 members, I emphasized the importance of constructive action. We must realize the Security Council’s potential to address the full range of international crises and strengthen the UN as a global platform for peace,” Blinken tweeted.

On Afghanistan, the Secretary called for P5 coordination to mitigate the emerging humanitarian crisis and prevent an economic collapse. He noted the shared expectations for an inclusive and representative government.

Moreover, the secretary encouraged the P5 to remain united on Afghanistan, to hold the Taliban accountable to its commitments, and to work together to ensure humanitarian access, respect for humanitarian principles, and availability of funds to meet humanitarian needs.

“Had a productive dialogue at UNGA76 with G20 Foreign Ministers and International Organization Principals on Afghanistan. The international community is united in its expectations for the Taliban to adhere to their commitments,” he said in another tweet.

On Iran, the secretary reiterated the United States’ intent to pursue a path of meaningful diplomacy to achieve a mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA and to address full range of concerns with Iran. — Agencies