Afghanistan Peace CampaignSo far, aside from Russia, no country has officially recognized the Islamic Emirate.
Richard Lindsay, the United Kingdom’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, who occasionally visits Kabul, said in an interview with the BBC that establishing formal engagement with Kabul depends on practical steps regarding human rights and security.
Speaking about the future of Afghanistan’s embassy in London, he stated that official diplomatic relations would resume only after Afghanistan’s current authorities are recognized by the international community.
Richard Lindsay, the UK’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, said: “Once Afghanistan is recognized by the international community as a legitimate government, the possibility of establishing formal diplomatic relations with Afghanistan will become available. At present, such conditions do not exist.”
Lindsay also expressed concern over tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, saying the success of mediation efforts between the two countries depends on the willingness of both Kabul and Islamabad.
He added: “We ask both sides to resolve their issues through dialogue and political engagement. In my view, it is very important that both parties be prepared for talks. I know some countries are already involved in mediation efforts, but the success of mediation depends on the will of both sides.”
The British envoy described the purpose of his visits to Kabul as efforts to protect human rights, ensure girls’ access to education, and guarantee that Afghan soil is not used to threaten other countries.
He also said that the United Kingdom remains one of Afghanistan’s aid donors.
Richard Lindsay stated: “Last year, we allocated 150 million pounds, equivalent to nearly 13 billion Afghanis, to assist people in need in Afghanistan, and we ensure that up to 50 percent of the recipients are women and girls.”
Tafsir Siyah-Poosh, a women’s rights activist, said: “The international community has always limited itself to slogans and statements and has never truly wanted to stand beside Afghan women. But our demand as Afghan women is that the Islamic Emirate should first pay attention to us before the world does.”
So far, aside from Russia, no country has officially recognized the Islamic Emirate. However, officials of the Islamic Emirate have repeatedly said that they maintain engagement with many countries, especially those in the region, which they consider a form of recognition.