Islamic Emirate Sees Brussels Talks as Turning Point in Relations With EU
A meeting between a delegation of the Islamic Emirate and the European Union was held in Brussels.
The main topics discussed between representatives of the Islamic Emirate and the EU included the resumption of consular services for Afghans living in Europe, confidence-building measures, consular presence, and facilitating the dignified return of migrants.
Abdul Qahar Balkhi, who led the Islamic Emirate delegation at the meeting, said he hopes the visit will pave the way for new avenues of positive engagement and expanded cooperation based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Zakir Jalaly, the Second Political Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the visit as a turning point in Afghanistan’s relations with the European Union. He added that the trip was a continuation of previous understandings between Afghanistan, Germany, and Norway, which led to Islamic Emirate diplomats resuming their activities in those countries.
He emphasized that European countries could use this experience as a practical model for shaping their approach to engagement with Afghanistan.
Jalaly stated: “This step was taken in continuation of previous understandings between Afghanistan, Germany, and Norway, under which Afghan diplomats resumed their activities in these countries. Since then, these missions have operated regularly and provided transparent services to Afghans residing in Europe. This experience can serve as a practical model for other European countries in determining how they engage with Afghanistan.”
Janat Fahim Chakari, a university professor, said: “This is a good opportunity for the Islamic Emirate to improve its relations with European countries and demonstrate through its actions that its measures are in line with international norms. Where there are shortcomings, the Islamic Emirate should align itself with international laws and charters.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the European Commission, without providing details about the meeting, once again described it as a purely technical meeting held at the request of 20 EU member states.
Markus Lammert, spokesperson for the European Commission, said: “These meetings are held at the technical level, and their purpose is to establish contacts and technical coordination. There is no other proposal that I can comment on.”
Earlier, human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, called on the European Union to abandon plans for the deportation of Afghan migrants.
