Afghanistan Times
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KABUL — The Taliban have called on the United States to formally recognize their government, following Russia’s historic recognition earlier this week. In a statement issued today, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid emphasized that international recognition is crucial for Afghanistan’s stability and economic recovery.
“We seek constructive relations with the world, particularly the United States, to foster peace and development,” Mujahid said. “Recognition is not just a diplomatic formality; it is a pathway to cooperation and mutual benefit.”
This appeal comes as Russia accepted the credentials of Afghanistan’s new ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan, making it the first country to officially recognize the Taliban-led government since their takeover in August 2021. Moscow cited shared security concerns and the potential for economic collaboration as key factors in its decision.
Despite this development, the U.S. has maintained a cautious stance. White House officials have stated there is “no rush” to recognize the Taliban, emphasizing that such a decision depends on the group’s actions, particularly regarding human rights and governance.
The Taliban’s call for recognition underscores a broader diplomatic effort to end Afghanistan’s international isolation. While countries like China, Pakistan, and the UAE have engaged with the Taliban, formal recognition remains limited.
The U.S. continues to explore avenues for consular engagement with Afghanistan, aiming to address humanitarian concerns and facilitate the return of American citizens without endorsing the Taliban’s rule.
As the international community navigates this complex issue, the Taliban’s appeal highlights the ongoing debate over how best to engage with Afghanistan’s current leadership while addressing concerns over human rights and regional security.
