Uzbekistan and Türkiye deepen engagement with Taliban-led government in Afghanistan

Two influential Turkic states — Uzbekistan and Türkiye — are intensifying their diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government, signaling a shift in regional dynamics focused on pragmatic cooperation over political isolation.

In a recent interview with Uzbek media, Abdulaziz Kamilov, Deputy Secretary of the Security Council under the President of Uzbekistan, emphasized that his country follows a “consistent, pragmatic, and principled policy” toward Afghanistan. He underscored the need for the international community to shift its approach, stating: “The people of Afghanistan, who have endured interventions by the British Empire, the Soviet Union, and NATO, need support, not pressure.”

Kamilov clarified that Uzbekistan’s cooperation with Kabul is not dependent on formal recognition of the Taliban administration. He argued that recognition is a matter of time, calling it “inevitable,” and stressed the importance of launching a broader international dialogue involving the current Afghan authorities.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue on the ground in Kabul. Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban’s acting Foreign Minister, met with Turkish Ambassador Cenk Ünal to discuss bilateral ties, regional developments, and ongoing cooperation.

According to a statement from Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Muttaqi expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s support and highlighted the “expanding” nature of relations between Kabul and Ankara.

The moves by Tashkent and Ankara reflect a growing trend among regional actors to engage directly with Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, prioritizing stability and strategic interests over international hesitation to grant official recognition.

As Western pressure continues to mount on the Taliban over human rights and governance issues, regional powers appear increasingly willing to chart their own course in dealing with Kabul.

Copied