Kabul needs regular ties with Washington whereas looking for nearer cooperation with Russia and India, Zabihullah Mujahid has informed RT
Afghanistan is “undoubtedly” higher off 5 years after the withdrawal of US forces, Taliban chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has informed RT, whereas acknowledging that the nation continues to face critical issues.
In a uncommon interview with RT India’s Runjhun Sharma, Mujahid argued that the departure of international troops has restored Afghanistan’s independence and left Afghans answerable for rebuilding their very own nation.
The Taliban returned to energy in August 2021 because the Western-backed authorities collapsed and US forces accomplished their withdrawal after 20 years of warfare. The hardline Islamist motion has since reinstated a strict interpretation of Sharia regulation, together with sweeping restrictions on ladies and women which have drawn widespread worldwide criticism.
Nonetheless, regardless of the battle, Mujahid stated Kabul now needs regular diplomatic relations with Washington, together with the reopening of the US Embassy in Afghanistan and an Afghan mission within the American capital.
He additionally argued that Western perceptions of the Taliban stay formed by 20 years of warfare, accusing worldwide media of portraying the group as looking for battle and instability and posing a risk to the skin world.
“However now the warfare is over, and I imagine these wartime insurance policies, each political and media insurance policies, must also change,” he stated, urging international governments and journalists to interact instantly with the Taliban and “perceive our objectives.”
He additionally known as for sanctions to be lifted and frozen Afghan belongings to be returned, saying the measures would assist enhance relations.
Commenting on Afghanistan’s relations with Russia, which is at the moment the one nation to acknowledge the Taliban authorities, Mujahid described Moscow as an essential regional companion and stated Kabul needs Russian corporations to put money into Afghanistan whereas increasing cooperation in commerce, reconstruction, gas, and vitality.
The spokesman additionally rejected options that the Taliban ought to change its home insurance policies in change for worldwide recognition. Requested particularly about restrictions affecting ladies and women, he argued that Afghanistan has already met the conventional necessities of statehood and shouldn’t be subjected to further situations.
“Afghanistan has its personal beliefs and convictions, has its personal faith and religion, has its personal inside pursuits, and has its personal legal guidelines,” he stated. “These must be valued and revered.”
Watch the complete interview under.
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