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Several European countries, including France, are looking into opening a joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan, French President Emmanuel Macron said Saturday, according to a Reuters report.
“We are thinking of an organization between several European countries … a common location for several Europeans, which would allow our ambassadors to be present,” Macron was reported saying during a visit to Qatar.
EU countries and the U.S. have refused to recognize the Taliban regime that took power in August after the withdrawal of American troops. Macron said “this is a different demarche than a political recognition or political dialogue with the Taliban.”
“We will have a representation as soon as we can open,” he said, but added security issues will have to be fixed first.
Last week, amid growing concern over the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, the EU conducted talks with members of the Taliban government and floated the idea of starting a mission. In a statement, the EU said it was considering “establishing a minimal presence on the ground in Kabul, which would not entail recognition.”
Macron’s announcement came on a tour of Gulf countries, which included the signing of a €17 billion defense contract with the United Arab Emirates. “For me the objective is peace, stability and the fight against terrorism” in the region, he said.
Meanwhile, on Friday, France evacuated 258 Afghans “threatened because of their engagements,” including journalists. It also conducted a joint humanitarian mission with Qatar to deliver 40 tons of medical equipment, food and supplies to international organizations in Afghanistan.
Source: Politico
