Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate, has announced that the Taliban will participate in the third Doha meeting only if the agenda proves beneficial for Afghanistan.
Mujahid emphasized that the meeting must focus on greater engagement with the Islamic Emirate, lifting restrictions on interim government officials, and addressing key issues concerning Afghanistan.
Key Demands for Participation
Kabul 24: Mujahid outlined the Islamic Emirate’s conditions for participation, including exclusive representation of Afghanistan by the Islamic Emirate, a separate high-level meeting between the acting foreign minister and the UN Secretary-General, and avoiding discussions on Afghanistan’s internal issues. These demands were not met in the previous Doha meeting, leading to the Taliban’s non-participation.
Unity and Legitimacy
Mujahid stressed the importance of the Islamic Emirate’s representation in the meeting, ensuring the unity of Afghanistan is portrayed. This condition was crucial in the previous meeting, and its non-fulfillment led to the Taliban’s boycott.
Analysts Weigh In
Political analysts warn that if the Islamic Emirate does not attend the third Doha meeting, it will be as unproductive as the previous meetings.
They emphasize that the meeting’s success hinges on the Taliban’s participation and acceptance of the legitimate demands of the international community, which align with the wishes of the Afghan people.
Conditional Participation
The political deputy of the Prime Minister and Acting Foreign Minister has reiterated that the Islamic Emirate’s effective participation in the third Doha meeting is conditional on the acceptance of their demands.
The Taliban’s stance underscores their commitment to ensuring that Afghanistan’s interests are prioritized in any international discussions.
