The Afghanistan embassy in New Delhi has officially declared its permanent closure, citing persistent challenges from the Indian government. In a statement released on November 23, 2023, the embassy explained that the decision followed the cessation of operations on September 30, with the hope that the Indian government's stance would change to allow normal functioning.
"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." read the statement.
Acknowledging potential misinterpretations, the embassy clarified that the closure was not an internal conflict but a result of broader changes in policy and interests. It addressed Afghan citizens in India, expressing gratitude for their support throughout the embassy's tenure and assuring them of continuous efforts for their betterment despite limitations in resources.
The statement noted a significant decline in the Afghan community in India over the past two years and three months, attributing it to Afghan refugees, students, and traders leaving the country. The embassy emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and fair treatment, citing efforts to counter challenges, including attempts to tarnish its image.
"We assure the Afghan community that the mission operated with transparency, accountability, and a commitment to fair treatment based on the goodwill and interests of Afghanistan considering historic ties and bilateral relations with India," it added.
"Unfortunately, efforts have been made to tarnish our image and hinder diplomatic efforts in order to justify the presence and work of Taliban-appointed and affiliated diplomats. In the face of these challenges, our committed team worked diligently in the most difficult circumstances, prioritizing the interests of the 40 million Afghans in every possible sphere from securing humanitarian aid and online education scholarships to facilitating ease in trade and advocating for the formation of a broad-based government," the Afghan embassy stated further in its statement.
Currently, there are no diplomats from the Afghan Republic in India, with the mission handed over to the Indian government. The embassy urged the Indian government to decide the fate of the mission, considering alternatives, including the possibility of involving Taliban diplomats.
The statement, which marked the conclusion of the Afghan Republic's mission in India, expressed gratitude to the people of India for their support over the past 22 years. The embassy reiterated its commitment to serving Afghanistan and pledged to explore avenues to support the nation in challenging times. The closure of operations, initially announced on November 1, was attributed to a lack of resources and the Taliban regime's failure to meet Afghanistan's interests. The embassy disassociated certain consulates, funded and instructed by Kabul, from the objectives of a legitimate government, labelling them as serving the interests of an "illegitimate regime."
(With inputs from ANI)
First Published: Nov 24, 2023 10:06 AM IST
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