E. Macron: European countries are working to open a joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan

European countries are working to open a joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan, which will allow their ambassadors to return to the country, French President Emmanuel Macron said today.

Western nations have been trying to find ways to work with the Taliban since they seized power in Afghanistan in August as US forces completed their withdrawal from the country.

Upon their return to power, the United States and other Western countries closed their embassies and withdrew their diplomats.

“We are thinking of an organization between different European countries (…) a common ground for many Europeans, which will allow our ambassadors to be present,” Macron said from Doha, before leaving for Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The United States, European countries and others are wary of a formal recognition of the Taliban government, accusing them of failing to live up to their commitment to a full-fledged government in Afghanistan and of respecting women’s rights. and minorities.

“This is a different step from a political recognition or a political dialogue with the Taliban (…) we will have a representation as soon as we can open it,” Macron added, adding that security issues still needed to be clarified.

In a statement following talks with the Taliban a week ago, the European Union also hinted that a mission could be opened soon.

“The EU delegation stressed that the possibility of establishing a minimal presence in Kabul, which would not imply recognition, would depend directly on the security situation, as well as drastic de facto authorities’ decisions to enable the EU to ensure adequate protection. staff and facilities, “the statement said.

France separately announced yesterday, Friday, that it had carried out with the help of Qatar a mission to evacuate more than 300 people from Afghanistan, mainly Afghans.

Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ