Here Is Why The Afghanistan Embassy In Delhi Has Been Shut Down Permanently
The Afghanistan Embassy in India on Friday announced that its mission in New Delhi has been closed permanently.
"The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in New Delhi regrets to announce the permanent closure of its diplomatic mission in New Delhi," it said in a letter on social media.
What the embassy said?
"Effective from November 23, 2023, owing to persistent challenges from the Indian government. The decision follows the embassy's earlier cessation of operations on September 30, a move made in the hope that the Indian government stance will favourably change to let the mission operate normally," the letter said.
The embassy said it was 'cognisant' that some may attempt to characterise this move as an internal conflict, allegedly involving diplomats who switched allegiance to the Taliban, adding "that this decision is a result of broader changes in policy and interests".
"We assure the Afghan community that the mission operated with transparency, accountability, and a commitment to fair treatment based on the goodwill and interests of Afghanistan considering historic ties and bilateral relations with India," it added.
What forced the closure
"Unfortunately, efforts have been made to tarnish our image and hinder diplomatic efforts in order to justify the presence and work of Taliban-appointed and affiliated diplomats. In the face of these challenges, our committed team worked diligently in the most difficult circumstances, prioritising the interests of the 40 million Afghans in every possible sphere, from securing humanitarian aid and online education scholarships to facilitating ease in trade and advocating for the formation of a broad-based government," the Afghan embassy stated further in its statement.
"To the Afghan citizens in India, the Embassy extends its sincere gratitude for their understanding and support throughout our mission's tenure," it added.
Despite "limitations in resources and power", the Afghan embassy said it has worked "tirelessly for their betterment and in the absence of a legitimate government in Kabul".
The release further stated that the Afghan Republic's diplomats have officially handed over the mission in Chanakyapuri to the Indian government.
Who are the Afghan diplomats?
It should be noted that the diplomatic staff at the Afghanistan Embassy in Delhi were appointed by the previous Ashraf Ghani government, which was ousted by the Taliban in 2021. They had refused to recognise the Taliban and rejected the militia's demand to quit, claiming that they represent the legitimate government of Afghanistan.
Where do India-Afghanistan relations stand?
India has not officially recognised the current Taliban government in Afghanistan.
India established diplomatic relations with the democratically elected government of Afghanistan in 2001 after the Taliban was ousted from power by the US.
India withdrew its diplomatic staff from Afghanistan in August 2021 while the Taliban was advancing towards Kabul.
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