Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – In a recent meeting between Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister of Afghanistan, and Faisal Bin Talaq Al-Baqmi, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Kabul, both sides emphasized expanding bilateral relations, with a focus on increasing consular services for Afghans living in Saudi Arabia.
During the discussions, Muttaqi called for an increase in the Hajj quota for Afghan citizens and greater cooperation between the two nations in providing consular services to Afghans residing in Saudi Arabia. He also reiterated that Afghanistan values its historical and important relationship with Saudi Arabia.
Zia Ahmad Takal, the head of public relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, added that the acting foreign minister emphasized the need for increased exchanges of delegations between the two countries. Additionally, Muttaqi expressed the hope that Saudi Arabia would support the expansion of the Hajj and Umrah quotas for Afghan citizens.
The meeting comes shortly after the Saudi embassy resumed its diplomatic activities in Kabul about 20 days ago. Political analysts weighed in on the significance of the meeting. Amanullah Hotaki, a political analyst, stated, “Our relations with Muslim countries are beneficial. If Islamic countries cooperate with us, our government will also be recognized.” Meanwhile, Naser Shafiq noted, “Saudi Arabia aligns its stances in global issues with the US, and Afghanistan, as an Islamic country, needs more consular services, especially given that the Hajj and Umrah rituals take place in Saudi Arabia.”
Last week, Amir Khan Muttaqi visited the United Arab Emirates, where he held discussions on economic matters with India’s Deputy Foreign Minister, the UAE Foreign Minister, and the UAE Minister of Economy.
The meeting with Saudi Arabia further strengthens the Islamic Emirate’s efforts to enhance diplomatic relations with key Muslim nations, paving the way for increased cooperation on both religious and consular fronts.
