WASHINGTON: The US State Department has made it clear that it does not intend to recognize the ‘Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’ (IEA) government and will only engage with the Taliban when it serves the interests of the United States.
Vedant Patel, the US State Department Spokesperson, emphasized that engagement with the Taliban does not indicate recognition, normalization, or legitimacy of the group.
In response to queries from reporters, Patel stated, “We have been very clear that we will engage with the Taliban appropriately when it is our interest – in our interest to do so. This does not – this is not intended to mean any kind of indication of recognition or any kind of indication of normalization or legitimacy of the Taliban.”
US Policy Toward Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
Patel further clarified that the recent travel of Special Representative Tom West and Rina Amiri to Afghanistan does not signify any change in the United States’ policy towards the group.
Despite engaging in talks with the Taliban, the US remains concerned about the situation in Afghanistan. Patel emphasized that the US is troubled by the Taliban’s actions, including human rights abuses and the marginalization of Afghan women and girls.
Meanwhile, the Afghan Foreign Ministry announced that a delegation led by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will travel to Doha at the end of July for talks with US officials. The discussions are expected to cover topics such as the lifting of sanctions and blacklists, the unfreezing of Afghan assets, and violations of the country’s airspace.
During the visit, the Afghan delegation will also hold talks with Qatari officials to discuss bilateral relations.
