The Afghanistan embassy Friday announced the permanent closure of its operations in New Delhi and said: “that this decision is a result of broader changes in policy and interests”. It has also cited “constant pressure” from the Taliban and the Indian government to “relinquish control” as a reason for it to make this decision.

 

 

 

Releasing an official statement, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan 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 embassy has clearly stated, "While cognizant that some may attempt to characterize this move as an internal conflict, allegedly involving diplomats who switched allegiance to the Taliban, we emphasize that this decision is a result of broader changes in policy and interests."

 

“We have considered the historic events and current circumstances carefully in arriving at this conclusion. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the people of India for their support and assistance to Afghanistan over the past 22 years. We reiterate our commitment to serving the people of Afghanistan and will continue to explore avenues to support our nation in these challenging times,” the statement concluded.

 

There are no diplomats from the Afghan Republic in India as of now, the embassy stated in its release. Those who served in the national capital have safely reached third countries and the only individuals present in India are diplomats affiliated with the Taliban, visibly attending their regular online meetings.

 

"The diplomats of the Afghan Republic have handed over the mission solely to the Indian government. It now rests upon the Indian government to decide the fate of the mission, whether to maintain its closure or consider alternatives, including the possibility of handing it over to Taliban "diplomats". The responsibility of diplomats appointed by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has officially come to an end. The unfortunate end of the Republic mission marks the conclusion of the Afghan Republic in India," it added.

 

Concluding, it expressed gratitude towards India, stating, "We have considered the historic events and current circumstances carefully in arriving at this conclusion. We also extend their heartfelt gratitude to the people of India for their support and assistance to Afghanistan over the past 22 years. We reiterate our commitment to serving the people of Afghanistan and will continue to explore avenues to support our nation in these challenging times."