KABUL: A Taliban government spokesman has said the Afghan authorities were committed to meaningful engagement with the international community after a new morality law triggered tense exchanges over women’s rights.
The law, which imposes strict dress codes and behavioral restrictions on women, has raised concerns about the future of diplomatic relations with the Taliban administration.
On Saturday, Taliban Deputy Spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat reassured the international community of the Taliban’s commitment to constructive dialogue. Fitrat emphasized that the Taliban government is committed to engaging positively with countries and organizations in accordance with their interpretation of Islamic law.
In a voice message to journalists, Fitrat stated, “Interaction is the only way to achieve solutions to problems and for the progression and expansion of relations.” He urged nations and organizations to continue engaging with the Taliban authorities in a positive manner.
This statement follows recent tensions between the Taliban and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). The Taliban’s morality ministry said on Friday that it would cease cooperation with UNAMA in response to the mission’s criticism of the new “Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice,” which was ratified last week.
The new law mandates that women cover their entire body and face when leaving their homes and prohibits them from raising their voices in public. The law also enforces strict behavioral and dress codes for men, with morality police given the authority to warn and detain people for non-compliance.
The UN and EU have warned that such measures could damage prospects for future engagement with foreign nations and international organizations.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, assured that the UN would continue to engage with all stakeholders in Afghanistan, including the Taliban. “We have always done so following our mandate and I would say impartially and in good faith,” Dujarric said. He urged the Taliban to open more avenues for diplomatic engagement, despite the recent tensions.
Chief Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid defended the law, suggesting that rejection of it represents “arrogance” and a lack of understanding of Islamic principles.
Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, no country has officially recognized their government. However, the Taliban has made some diplomatic progress, including participation in UN-hosted talks in Qatar.
