Afghanistan proclaims permanent shut-down of its 22-Year Diplomatic Mission In India
Afghanistan proclaims permanent shut-down of its
22-Year Diplomatic Mission In India
In a fresh development Afghanistan Embassy on Friday proclaimed the permanent shut-down of its diplomatic mission in New Delhi continuous challenges from the Indian government.
The decision, having come into effective from November 23, follows the embassy’s earlier cessation of operations on September 30, 2023 a move made in the hope that the Indian government stance will favourably change to let the mission operate normally.
Notedly, all the Diplomats from Afghan Republic have left India, leaving the fate of the mission to the Indian government, marking the conclusion of the 22-years of Afghan Republic’s diplomatic presence in India.
The embassy acknowledged potential characterization of the move as an internal conflict but asserted it was a result of broader policy and interest changes.
It further added that to the Afghan citizens in India, the Embassy extends its sincere gratitude for their understanding and support throughout our mission’s tenure.
Notwithstanding facing constraints in resources and authority, the Afghan embassy emphasized its unwavering efforts towards the well-being of the community, particularly in the absence of a recognized government in Kabul.
The number of Afghan community in India has nearly halved since August 2021 as many Afghan refugees, students and traders left the country, with very limited new visas being issued.
Afghan Embassy added that they 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.
The statement further stated that 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, their committed team worked diligently in the most difficult circumstances, prioritizing 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 underscored that it utilized its diplomatic influence to pressure those who obstructed the formation of an inclusive government and denied millions of girls the right to education, expressing its commitment to advocating for the will of the Afghan people.
The statement noted that there are no diplomats representing the Afghan Republic in India currently, with those stationed in the national capital being relocated to third countries. Notably, the only remaining diplomatic presence in India is affiliated with the Taliban.
The release further pointed out that the Afghan Republic’s diplomats have officially handed over the mission to the Indian government. The decision regarding the fate of the mission, whether to maintain its closure or explore alternatives, including the potential transfer to Taliban diplomats, will now rest with the Indian government.
The statement concluded with saying that they have considered the historic events and current circumstances carefully in arriving at this conclusion and also extend their heartfelt gratitude to the people of India for their support and assistance to Afghanistan over the past 22 years.
They reiterate their commitment to serving the people of Afghanistan and will continue to explore avenues to support our nation in these challenging times.
The embassy suspended operations on October 1, with its financial struggles were attributed to the Taliban overthrowing the previous government in 2021. It also criticized certain consulates for serving the interests of an illegitimate regime.
News Edit K.V.Raman
