The new Uzbek ambassador to Afghanistan, Oibek Usmanov, presented his credentials to Amir Khan Muttaqi. Muttaqi is the IEA’s foreign minister. The meeting took place on Wednesday, according to a statement from the IEA-run Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the meeting, Muttaqi assured the ambassador of cooperation and called on Uzbekistan to take “effective steps” toward implementing major economic projects in Afghanistan. Usmanov, for his part, pledged to strengthen bilateral relations during his tenure, the statement said. The Uzbek ambassador presented his credentials, taking a step toward fostering closer diplomatic ties between the two nations.
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Close ties without recognition
Uzbekistan, a neighboring country to Afghanistan, has maintained close ties with the IEA since their return to power in August 2021. However, like other nations, it has stopped short of formally recognizing the group’s government.
In October, Uzbekistan accepted Abdul Ghafar Baher as the IEA’s envoy in Tashkent, one of the few instances of such acceptance in the region.
Currently, 40 Afghan embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions, including the consulate in Mumbai, India, are either under IEA control or managed by their appointees.
More than three years after the IEA regained power, no country or international organization has officially recognized their administration.
The international community has outlined conditions for recognition. These include the IEA’s commitment to combating terrorism and cutting ties with extremist groups. Other conditions include forming an inclusive government and respecting human rights. Particular emphasis has been placed on women’s rights.
This news is sourced from [AMU] and is for informational purposes only.
