The Taliban have begun high-level talks with Western diplomats in Norway as Afghanistan grapples with an escalating humanitarian crisis. The meetings, held behind closed doors, aim to address the dire situation in the country where millions are teetering on the brink of starvation. Delegations from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, France, Germany, and Italy are participating in the discussions. The primary focus is on the urgent need for humanitarian aid and the potential pathways to deliver assistance without endorsing the Taliban’s rule. The international community faces a complex dilemma. While there is a pressing need to alleviate the suffering of Afghan civilians, many governments are hesitant to formally recognize the Taliban, given their previous regime from 1996 to 2001 was marked by strict interpretations of Islamic law and human rights violations. “We are committed to supporting the Afghan people,” a Western diplomat stated. “However, engagement with the Taliban requires careful consideration of their commitments to human rights and governance.” The Taliban, seeking formal recognition and access to international funding, are under scrutiny over how they will govern Afghanistan. Concerns persist about the rights of women and minorities, freedom of expression, and adherence to international norms. As winter intensifies, the urgency increases to find solutions. Aid agencies warn that without immediate action, Afghanistan could face one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history. The talks in Norway represent a critical juncture for Afghanistan’s future, balancing the need for humanitarian assistance with the complexities of international diplomacy.
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Taliban meet western diplomats in Norway as Afghanistan crisis worsens
cgtn.com
