Authorities in several European Union countries are considering the reopening of embassies in Afghanistan, potentially signaling recognition of the Taliban as the official government in the country. This comes three years after the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul, as reported by Bloomberg.
A senior European diplomat revealed a shift in Brussels towards acknowledging the importance of having EU representatives physically present in Afghanistan. This move is seen as crucial for executing development projects, safeguarding women’s rights, and establishing a strategic foothold in the nation.
Reports indicate that Italian authorities have conducted reconnaissance in Kabul for this purpose. Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tayan, confirmed that the Italian Ambassador to Afghanistan, currently in Qatar, visited Kabul. Tayan stated that Italy is actively working on establishing diplomatic ties with the Taliban, emphasizing the complexity of the decision and the human rights concerns in Afghanistan.
Similarly, Spain’s Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, discussed the potential relocation of the Spanish Ambassador from Qatar to Kabul, highlighting security challenges as a major hurdle.
While there are no immediate plans to open a French embassy, a French official acknowledged the need to address this issue in the future. British and Spanish authorities also cite security uncertainties as the primary barrier to reestablishing diplomatic presence in Afghanistan.
Original from theins.ru