Five years after return, Afghan Taliban government builds diplomacy

Five years after seizing control of Afghanistan, the Taliban government has been actively forging diplomatic ties with various nations, despite facing numerous obstacles. Russia is the sole country to officially recognise the Taliban regime, while several Western states have yet to accord formal recognition, citing concerns over human rights. However, many countries continue to engage with the Taliban, driven by practical benefits.

The Taliban's diplomatic efforts involve hosting foreign envoys and frequently sharing photographs of these encounters. Notable countries with embassies in Kabul include China, Japan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Britain. The Taliban's spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, emphasises the importance of relations with regional and neighbouring states, given the economic and strategic importance of these ties.

Recent diplomatic visits by Taliban officials highlight the changing political landscape. A delegation travelled to Brussels in June to discuss returning failed asylum-seekers to Afghanistan with 15 EU nations. Germany has deported an Afghan not convicted of any crime, marking a significant shift in European policy. Despite international pressure, including arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity, the Taliban shows no signs of altering its policies, particularly on restricting girls' education.

The UN Security Council's team evaluating strategies for Afghanistan notes that regional nations have been more pragmatic in their dealings with the Taliban. Issues such as counternarcotics and humanitarian access have seen some progress, albeit with limitations. India, a regional rival, has strengthened ties with the Taliban, securing a sanctions waiver for its foreign minister to visit Afghanistan.

This reflects the evolving political reality, where the de facto authorities maintain control and the international community must navigate various challenges.