The major factions in Afghanistan, now involved in the formation of a United Nations-brokered government, will not allow themselves to be dictated by others, including the United States and neighbour Pakistan.

"No doubt we will listen to their views, but I personally believe the new Afghanistan government would not allow itself to be dictated," said Abdul Sattar Murad, the charge d'affairs and minister consular of Afghanistan embassy which represents the country's Northern Alliance coalition.

Abdul Sattar was speaking at a forum entitled 'The Islamic state of Afghanistan as it is today', which was held at Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur this morning.

He said that Afghanistan should not make the mistake by aligning itself to one or two key powers.

"We would not repeat the same mistakes, This time around we're determined to be friends to all, including the US and Pakistan. We will consider their views as well," he said.

International aid

Abdul Sattar stressed that the Northern Alliance, which is now effectively in control of Afghanistan aside from a few Southern pockets still in Taliban hands, is fully committed to the formation of a broad-based government.

"Only through such a government will we be able to redevelop our country with the financial aid from the international community," said the envoy.

"Efforts to redevelop our country need money. If the Alliance was to return to power against the wishes of the international community, we would not get financial assistance from them. So the best solution is to support the formation of the UN-brokered government," he added.

He said, all factions in Afghanistan have learned at a great cost and they are now determined not to repeat past mistakes which could jeopardise international efforts to help the war-torn country.

The envoy also told the 20-odd participants that the Alliance is taking Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's views on combatting terrorism seriously.

"When asked that question, Dr Mahathir replied that 'let's develop and prosper our country. If they are rich they would not become terrorists'," said Abdul Sattar.

Northern Alliance is made up of Afghanistan's ethnic minorities including Tajiks and Uzbeks while the retreating Taliban comprises the majority Pashtun.