European Commission holds first official talks with Taliban representatives
The European Commission hosted Taliban representatives for the first time in Brussels on Tuesday to discuss repatriation of Afghan criminals and security threats. The technical talks do not imply political recognition of the regime.
On Tuesday, the European Commission held its first official meeting with representatives of the Taliban regime since the group came to power in Afghanistan. The Commission stated that the talks were at a technical level and aimed at discussing the repatriation of Afghan citizens who have committed serious crimes or pose security risks.
The invitation was extended in May after 20 EU member states requested support for deporting Afghans. Officials from 15 member states also participated in the negotiations. The EC emphasized that the talks do not signify political recognition of the Taliban regime, which is still not considered a legitimate government of Afghanistan.
Despite objections from Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, Belgium issued five one-day visas for the Taliban delegation. Countries that pushed for the talks, including Germany, Sweden, and Italy, previously noted that of the Afghans issued departure orders in 2024, only 2% were actually deported.
