Saudi Arabia has reopened its embassy in Kabul for the first time since the Taliban returned to power, marking a significant diplomatic move. This reopening, announced by the Saudi Embassy via social media, reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to providing services to the Afghan people.
On Monday, Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry welcomed this decision. Zia Ahmad Takal, the deputy spokesman for the ministry, assured the Embassy of Afghanistan's cooperation and emphasized the importance of ensuring staff safety. "We welcome the reopening of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Kabul and assure them of our full cooperation," Takal stated.
The embassy's reopening is expected to bolster relations between the two nations, addressing both bilateral cooperation and the specific needs of Afghan citizens residing in Saudi Arabia. Despite the Taliban's return to power, no country has formally recognized it as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, yet several maintain diplomatic ties.
The Saudi embassy's return to operations, which had been closed since the Taliban’s takeover and the withdrawal of U.S. forces, signals hope for Afghanistan’s Taliban government to strengthen its international relations. Zakir Jalaly, director of the second political division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commented, "The resumption of the activities of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will strengthen and expand bilateral relations between our governments and peoples."
Jalaly noted Saudi Arabia's historical role and importance, recalling its recognition of the Taliban during its prior rule from 1996 to 2001, alongside the UAE and Pakistan. The resumption of the embassy is also believed to pave the way for cooperation across various fields, benefiting both nations.
Naseer Ahmad Nawidy, a political science professor at Salam University, remarked on the significance of the embassy's reopening, stating, "It is significant for the Islamic Emirate facing international isolation as well as for the Afghan people coping with the negative impacts of this isolation." He also mentioned the practical benefits for Afghans living abroad, especially the estimated 132,000 Afghans residing in Saudi Arabia, highlighting how this step could facilitate trade and diplomatic relations.
The embassy's reopening is not just seen as diplomatic activity but also as part of Afghanistan's broader efforts to re-establish its international presence and address isolation. The Afghan government continues to express gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s engagement, viewing it as instrumental for both Afghans trying to maintain ties abroad and for improving the current socio-economic conditions within Afghanistan.
Although the Taliban remains unrecognized internationally, the continued dialogue and engagement by nations like Saudi Arabia present opportunities for Afghanistan to navigate its complex political situation. The hope is to reignite diplomatic efforts with other Islamic countries, potentially leading to more embassies reopening and enhanced cooperation across various sectors.
