Taliban Urges US: Reopen Kabul Embassy Amid Diplomatic Push for Ties

The Taliban government is actively seeking normalized relations with the United States through diplomatic and economic channels. They specifically called for the reopening of the US Embassy in Kabul as a crucial step toward legitimate bilateral relations. This diplomatic push comes as India recently upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to full embassy status. Meanwhile, US policy toward Afghanistan's current leadership remains uncertain despite some acknowledged counterterrorism cooperation.

Key Points: Taliban Calls for US Embassy Reopening in Kabul for Relations

  • Taliban emphasizes economic and political channels for US relations
  • Zabihullah Mujahid urges diplomatic engagement over military bases
  • India upgrades Kabul mission to embassy status amid engagement
  • US policy on Afghanistan remains unclear despite some counterterrorism cooperation
3 min read

We support good relations with all countries: Taliban govt urges US to reopen embassy, focus on economic and political ties

Taliban government urges US to reopen Kabul embassy, focusing on economic and political ties while maintaining good relations with all countries including America.

"Instead of Bagram, activate your embassy in Kabul. By reopening this diplomatic channel, Afghanistan and the U.S. can have proper and legitimate relations. - Zabihullah Mujahid"

Kabul, October 22

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan highlighted its aim to maintain good relations with all countries, including the US, Tolo News reported.

Zabihullah Mujahid, speaking to Tolo News, said that the Emirate views its ties with the US as primarily economic and political.

Mujahid stated, "We support good relations with all countries, including the U.S., and our relations should rely on two channels: diplomatic and trade. In this regard, we have always reached out and encouraged the U.S. to engage with us in these areas."

He also addressed recent remarks by the US President concerning Bagram Airbase, suggesting that Donald Trump should prioritise reopening the US Embassy in Kabul.

"They sometimes talk about Bagram or other matters. We told them: instead of Bagram, activate your embassy in Kabul. By reopening this diplomatic channel, Afghanistan and the U.S. can have proper and legitimate relations. We support good ties, let's see what they say," Mujahid added, Tolo News reported.

The Islamic Emirate's focus on economic and political channels comes as the Deputy National Security Advisor to the US President previously acknowledged some cooperation by Afghanistan's current leadership in counterterrorism efforts.

Mohammad Amin Karim, an international relations expert, told Tolo News, "In the United States, there is ongoing contention between those who support and those who oppose engagement with the current system in Afghanistan, which has yet to reach a conclusion. We may see the announcement of a long-term U.S. policy on Afghanistan in the coming weeks or months."

Despite repeated criticism from the US President regarding the withdrawal from Afghanistan, the official stance of the US on the country's current leadership remains unclear.

Meanwhile, In a significant step, India on Tuesday restored the status of its Technical Mission in Kabul to that of an Embassy with immediate effect. Ministry of External Affairs said in a release that the decision underscores India's resolve to deepen its bilateral engagement with the Afghan side in all spheres of mutual interest.The decision to upgrade Technical Mission of India in Kabul to Embassy was announced by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during his meeting with Afghanistan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi.

The Afghan Foreign Minister visited India from October 9 to 16. The MEA release said that the Embassy of India in Kabul will further augment India's contribution to Afghanistan's comprehensive development.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The Taliban saying they want good relations is one thing, but what about their treatment of women and minorities? Until they show real change, countries should be cautious. 🤔
A
Arjun K
Economic ties are important, but we shouldn't forget our security concerns. Afghanistan's stability directly affects India's security, especially in Jammu & Kashmir.
S
Sarah B
As an Indian living abroad, I think engagement is better than isolation. India's approach of maintaining diplomatic presence while being cautious makes sense. The region needs stability.
M
Michael C
The US should think carefully before reopening embassy. The Taliban haven't kept many promises. India's measured approach seems more sensible than rushing into full diplomatic relations.
K
Kavya N
India has historical and cultural ties with Afghanistan. Our development projects there have helped ordinary Afghans. Hope the current situation doesn't affect our humanitarian work. 🙏

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