A meeting of the Afghan National Dialogue, "Meli Maraka," was held in Cologne, Germany.

On July 19, 2025, the "National Dialogue" meeting was held in Cologne, Germany, with the participation of nearly 70 political, scientific, and social figures from Afghanistan. The program was organized with the aim of exchanging views on the current situation in Afghanistan, strengthening national unity, and examining the role of the Afghan diaspora in the country's peace, reconstruction, and future.
This meeting, as a continuation of the series of National Dialogue sessions previously held in London, Berlin, and Birmingham, was conducted in a scientific and interactive atmosphere.
Mr. Matiullah Raoofi opened the meeting with a welcoming speech. Then, Professor Basir Ahmad Daneshyar introduced the goals and structure of the National Dialogue. Following this, Dr. Khushal Rouhi gave a concise presentation, explaining the concepts, objectives, features, and formation stages of the dialogue to the attendees.
Subsequently, a series of open discussions, moderated by Professor Reshad Hakim and Professor Sayed Fahim Sadat, began. The first part focused on examining the fundamental challenges and priorities for national unity, peace, and progress, and analytically presented the obstacles and impeding factors.
The second part of the discussion addressed fundamental ways to achieve national unity, peace, and progress, discussing strategies based on national participation, dialogue, and the strengthening of civil institutions.
A notable point of the meeting was the active participation of the attendees. During the dialogue, the participants played an active role in the exchange of views by raising questions, perspectives, and opinions, making the discussions fruitful.
Additionally, a group of participants expressed concern about the dire situation of Afghan refugees in Iran and Pakistan and the closure of schools and universities inside Afghanistan, calling for an official statement from the National Dialogue on these matters.
In the final section, a National Dialogue working group was established to ensure the continuation of the meetings and activities of the National Dialogue and to create a "Meli Maraka" branch. The continuation of this process was emphasized.
At the end of the meeting, a prayer was read for the late brave poet, orator, and critic Matiullah Turab, and a wish for the peace of his soul was made.
The National Dialogue is a popular initiative launched by a group of Afghan intellectuals, scientific and cultural figures, and social activists in Europe. These meetings strive to reflect the voices of Afghan citizens, especially the diaspora community, in major national discussions and to play an effective role in building the country's future.