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KABUL – In a bold speech from the heart of Taliban territory, Sirajuddin Haqqani, the notorious Taliban interior minister, dismissed the significance of international recognition, particularly from the United States. Speaking from Paktia province, Haqqani declared that their accomplishments transcend any external validation.
Still sought for questioning regarding the 2008 Kabul hotel attack, Haqqani, defiantly stated, “We expelled them by force,” referring to American forces. He emphasized the Taliban’s commitment to Afghan sovereignty, rejecting dependence on external validation. “We have security, freedom, and brotherhood. This is more meaningful than recognition,” he asserted, giving the U.S. a decade to reconsider.
Despite Haqqani’s rhetoric, a pivotal UN meeting in Doha looms, aimed at assessing Afghanistan’s integration, including the Taliban, under global scrutiny. However, the condition for international engagement remains clear: an inclusive government with women’s participation, a demand echoed by women activists.
Nasrullah Stanekzai, a former Kabul University lecturer, highlighted the repercussions of defiance, emphasizing the potential adverse effects and international actions permitted under the UN Charter.
Meanwhile, contradicting Haqqani’s stance, the Taliban engaged in talks discussing recognition, sanction removal, and securing Afghanistan’s UN seat. Yet, women activists demand tangible progress before diplomatic engagement, insisting on inclusive governance representing all Afghan demographics.
As the Doha meeting approaches on Feb. 18-19, the Taliban’s participation remains uncertain. The agenda includes appointing a special envoy, global integration efforts, and fostering peace dialogues inclusive of all factions, notably the Taliban.
