Taliban’s Acting Foreign Minister Talks with UAE Foreign Minister on Bilateral Ties and Regional Issues
The Taliban’s Foreign Ministry has announced that Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting head of the ministry, held a phone conversation with Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates, discussing bilateral relations, the regional situation, and the Taliban’s interactions with the United States and Pakistan.
According to a statement released by the Taliban administration, the two sides also talked about issues related to Afghanistan and the United States during the call. Muttaqi expressed appreciation for the UAE’s role in mediating the release of an American detainee and added that other outstanding matters could be resolved through bilateral relations. The Taliban administration has previously spoken of efforts to expand engagement with regional and Western countries, though it remains unrecognized by any state.
In part of the conversation, Muttaqi referred to the regional situation, stating that the United States and Israel have initiated a war against Iran, which, in his view, threatens regional security. He described the expansion of conflicts as concerning and praised what he called the “wisdom and prudence” of the United Arab Emirates. These remarks come amid heightened regional sensitivities and widespread concern over recent developments.
Regarding relations with Pakistan, Muttaqi said the Taliban administration seeks to resolve issues through dialogue and mutual understanding and will not allow Afghan soil to be used against Pakistan. He added that the Taliban’s military actions against Pakistan have been “defensive” and justified within the framework of the right to self-defense. Border tensions between the two sides have frequently led to clashes and border crossings being closed over recent months.
Meanwhile, Abdullah bin Zayed considered the Taliban-U.S. relationship important and emphasized that the UAE will continue its positive role in this regard. He also shared his country’s perspective on developments related to Iran and exchanged views on the regional situation.
The UAE foreign minister stated that tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan benefit neither party and assured that his country will continue efforts to reduce disputes and resolve problems. He concluded by assuring that special attention will be paid to the status and protection of Afghans residing in the UAE.
