Tehran-IRAF-Gilles Bertrand, the EU’s Special Representative Afghanistan, stated today on Wednesday, February 18, that he opposes the international community’s isolationist policies toward Afghanistan. He noted that opponents of engagement with the Taliban are mostly based outside the country, while citizens inside Afghanistan are calling for effective engagement with the world.
Referring to the continuation of the European Union’s humanitarian assistance, Bertrand emphasized the need for smart and pragmatic engagement with Afghanistan.
He warned: Every time the world has turned its back on Afghanistan, it has faced major consequences.
Bertrand added that criticism of the Taliban’s performance largely comes from Afghans living abroad, while within the country there is broad public interest in establishing ties with the international community.
Western Willingness for Greater Engagement with the Taliban
Matiullah Aryanpour, an expert in international relations, described this stance as a “positive political signal” that could pave the way for confidence-building between the Taliban and Western countries.
According to him, such an approach would have a direct impact on technical and economic cooperation with Afghanistan.
Roohollah Hotak, a political analyst, said that the Taliban’s nearly five-year performance has been effective in changing international perceptions.
Referring to nationwide security, efforts to combat narcotics, and the launch of major economic projects, he said these statements are based on the realities currently existing in Afghanistan.
At the same time, some experts are calling for practical steps by the international community beyond diplomatic rhetoric.
Mohammad Zalmai Afghanyar Popal, a political analyst, welcomed the remarks of the EU representative but stressed that Afghanistan’s problems cannot be solved by slogans alone.
He added that the international community should have realized that the Taliban have fulfilled their promises over the past four years, and now it is the turn of foreign countries to take practical steps toward official recognition of Afghanistan.
These developments come as Russia has become the first country to officially recognize the Taliban government since the group returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021.
Some countries, despite not formally recognizing the Taliban, have approved the credentials of Taliban diplomats at the chargé d’affaires level.
