“We hope to build positive momentum to safeguard the consular rights of Afghans residing abroad”
Controversial talks between the Taliban and EU officials took place on Tuesday at an undisclosed location.
The European Commission cited security concerns but clarified that a neutral venue, rather than EU premises, would be used – an acknowledgement of sensitivities surrounding the meeting.
Representatives of the repressive Islamist regime are primarily in Brussels to discuss the matter of returning Afghan nationals, those who have been convicted of a serious crime or who are considered a security risk, to their home country. Their arrival follows a visit by EU and Belgian officials to Kabul in January, which laid the groundwork for a follow-up meeting in Europe.
But the small contingent (of five members) also took the opportunity to push for a softening of diplomatic relations, notably with the resumption of consular services across the Union. “We hope to build positive momentum to safeguard the consular rights of Afghans residing abroad.”
