Devanjana Mukherjee, Khabri Media
The decision is likely to impact not only bilateral relations between Afghanistan and India but also regional stability and security.
Pic: Social Media
Embassy of Afghanistan has announced permanent closure of its diplomatic mission in New Delhi. In a statement, the Embassy expressed firm belief that the decision to close the mission and to transfer the custodial authority of the mission to the host country is in the best interest of Afghanistan. To subscribe please click tau.id/2iy6f and access our live channel.
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It extended gratitude to the people of India for their support and assistance to Afghanistan over the past 22 years. This decision comes amid the tumultuous events unfolding in Afghanistan and has far-reaching implications for diplomatic relations between the two nations.
“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.”
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Over the last two years and three months, the Afghan community in India has witnessed a significant decline, with Afghan refugees, students, and traders leaving the country, the embassy noted in its statement, adding that the number has nearly halved since August 2021, with very limited new visas being issued during this period.
The embassy acknowledged that some might interpret the decision to close its operations as an internal conflict involving diplomats who chose to side with the Taliban. But in reality, the move is a result of broader policy changes and interests.
It expressed gratitude to Afghan citizens in India for their understanding and support. The embassy worked tirelessly for the betterment of Afghan citizens in India despite limited resources, in an effort to make up for the absence of a legitimate government in Kabul.
