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KABUL – The Taliban government has called on Washington to reopen its embassy in Kabul and pursue “constructive relations” centered on diplomacy and trade, saying Afghanistan wants “good relations with all countries, including the United States.”
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told TOLO News that the Islamic Emirate views its relationship with the U.S. through “two channels — diplomatic and trade,” urging Washington to “engage with us in these areas.”
“They sometimes talk about Bagram or other matters,” Mujahid said, referring to recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump about the airbase. “We told them: instead of Bagram, activate your embassy in Kabul. By reopening this diplomatic channel, Afghanistan and the U.S. can have proper and legitimate relations. We support good ties — let’s see what they say.”
The remarks come as U.S. officials weigh a longer-term policy toward Afghanistan, with Washington’s Deputy National Security Advisor recently acknowledging limited cooperation with Kabul on counterterrorism. Analysts say U.S. policymakers remain divided between engagement and isolation of the Taliban government.
The diplomatic overture coincides with a major development in regional diplomacy — India’s decision to upgrade its Technical Mission in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the move during talks with Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi earlier this month, signaling New Delhi’s intent to deepen political and economic engagement with Afghanistan.
The Taliban has welcomed India’s step, calling it a sign of growing regional acceptance. Mujahid said the Emirate “encourages all nations, including the U.S., to normalize diplomatic and economic ties with Afghanistan.”
