Tomas Frelon, a European diplomat, has been appointed as the new European Union Special Representative for Afghanistan. This appointment comes as the EU continues its engagement with the Taliban government and its support for the Afghan people.
Announcing the news, former envoy Tomas Niklasson stated that Mr. Frelon's mission is to continue the EU's support for the women, men, and children of Afghanistan. He added that Frelon will also engage with the United Nations and other key partners to advance the EU's objectives in the country.
According to Niklasson, future engagement will be principled and results-oriented, based on the conclusions of the EU Council. This approach signifies the EU's effort to establish a clear framework for its relations with Kabul.
In a message following his appointment, Mr. Frelon wrote, "The people of Afghanistan, especially women and girls, will remain at the heart of the EU's engagement." He also emphasized his eagerness to collaborate with regional and international partners.
The European Union has maintained its presence in Afghanistan and continued its engagement with the Taliban since the fall of the previous government in 2021. The bloc is one of the largest providers of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.
According to reports, the EU contributed approximately €771 million, equivalent to about 56 billion Afghanis, to Afghanistan between 2020 and 2024. This aid is being provided amidst an ongoing economic and humanitarian crisis in the country.
The appointment of Frelon, an experienced diplomat, underscores Afghanistan's strategic importance to the European Union and its commitment to playing a role in the country's future. He is expected to focus on issues such as human rights, humanitarian aid, and regional stability.
Source: Zarin TV
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