Iran, Taliban in Talks to Host Regional Meeting in Kabul

Iran and the Taliban are in talks to host a regional meeting in Kabul, the Iranian ambassador to Afghanistan, Hassan Qasemi Qomi, said on Tuesday.

In a meeting with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Qomi said that Iran is ready to host a meeting of special representatives from regional countries to discuss Afghanistan. Muttaqi welcomed the proposal and expressed his readiness to host the meeting in Kabul.

The meeting would be the first of its kind since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021. It would be an opportunity for regional countries to discuss their shared interests in Afghanistan, including security, economic development, and humanitarian assistance.

Iran has been a vocal critic of the Taliban, but it has also maintained contact with the group. In recent months, Iran has worked to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

The Taliban has also been reaching out to other regional countries, including China, Pakistan, and Russia. These countries have all expressed a desire to work with the Taliban to stabilize Afghanistan.

A regional meeting in Kabul would be a sign of growing international recognition for the Taliban. It would also be an opportunity for regional countries to coordinate their efforts to address the challenges facing Afghanistan The meeting would likely be attended by representatives from Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, China, Russia, India, and other regional countries. The agenda would likely focus on security, economic development, and humanitarian assistance.

It is unclear when the meeting would be held. However, it is likely to be held in the coming months.