Afghanistan's Diplomatic Missions Face Closure Under Taliban Regime

Afghanistan's embassy in Norway is set to close, the second diplomatic mission to announce closure this week. This decision follows the Taliban's declaration of non-recognition for embassies affiliated with the former Western-backed government. Similar actions have occurred in London, raising concerns over the diplomatic status and operational capacities under the Taliban regime.

Afghanistan's embassy in Norway is closing, marking the second closure of an Afghan diplomatic mission this week. This comes after the Taliban's announcement that they no longer recognize embassies established by the previous Western-backed government, including the one in Norway.

The embassy declared on social media platform X that it will cease operations on Thursday. It emphasized continuing activities aligned with human rights, pluralism, and peace, despite facing numerous challenges and limited resources.

The premises will be handed over to Norway's Foreign Ministry. The UK government also announced the closure of the Afghan embassy in London following staff dismissals by the Taliban, who have not been recognized as Afghanistan's legitimate government by Britain.

Diplomats from the former Afghan government are in limbo following the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. While some embassies have kept operating, the Taliban accuse them of non-cooperation. The Taliban have sent diplomats to several neighboring countries, including China and the UAE. They were unavailable for comment on the closures.

(With inputs from agencies.)