Statement of the Coordination Council of the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on the recent Statements by Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs

۳۰ July 2024

Esteemed compatriots residing in Europe, Canada, United States and Australia:

In the past three years, the diplomatic and consular missions of Afghanistan in Europe, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere have remained obligated to provide consular services to Afghan nationals in their host countries. This commitment has been maintained despite the challenging circumstances, guided by the interest of Afghan citizens and in alignment with the position of the international community.

These consular services are provided transparently in conformity with national and international laws, in understanding with the relevant institutions of host countries and in adherence to the legitimacy and credibility of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The recent statement of the Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls for specific diplomatic and consular missions operating under the group’s authority to provide consular services to Afghan nationals residing in countries outside their jurisdiction. Such activity is in violation of established international rules and norms, as well as the national laws of Afghanistan.

On this basis, diplomatic and consular missions are not permitted to engage in any action, including provision of consular services, which are outside their area of responsibility, as defined in relevant bilateral agreements between sending and receiving States concerning the start of diplomatic and consular activity and relations.

Any such activity violates relevant bilateral and international commitment. They will also present numerous challenges to Afghan nationals and will have a profound negative effect on the future of Afghanistan’s diplomatic and consular relations.

Moreover, issuance of documents by a diplomatic and consular mission in another country is not enforceable and will create serious problems for the citizens of the country; especially those who have recently migrated abroad.

The diplomatic and consular missions of Afghanistan in Europe, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere remain committed to continue providing consular services within the framework of national and international laws and regulations, and in understanding and collaboration with host country authorities.

Regrettably, through their miscalculated and short-sighted actions, the Taliban have repeatedly created problems for Afghan refugees and citizens who reside outside their country.