Afghanistan Times
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KABUL — In a dramatic move signaling a significant shift in diplomatic relations, Turkey has terminated the mission of Afghan diplomats appointed by Afghanistan’s former, pro-Western government, effectively clearing the path for the Taliban to appoint their own representatives. The outgoing diplomatic team announced the decision on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in the Taliban’s efforts to consolidate control over Afghanistan’s international presence.
In a strongly-worded statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the departing Afghan diplomats revealed that they had handed over the embassy in Ankara to the Turkish Foreign Ministry. The statement accused the Taliban of exerting “continuous pressure” on both the diplomats and Turkish officials, ultimately forcing Turkey’s hand.
“Due to the failed attempts of the Taliban to gain control of the embassy and the continuous pressure on the diplomats and employees of this embassy, as well as their pressure on the Turkish government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey has recently decided to terminate the mission of the ambassador and diplomats of this embassy,” the statement read.
The move represents another diplomatic victory for the Taliban, who have been working to assert control over Afghanistan’s overseas embassies and consulates since seizing power in August 2021. With the takeover of the Ankara mission, the Taliban now oversee more than 40 diplomatic missions worldwide.
Turkey’s Calculated Decision
The outgoing diplomats suggested that Turkey’s decision was a strategic compromise to maintain its own diplomatic presence in Afghanistan. According to the statement, Turkey aims to keep its embassy in Kabul and consulates in Mazar-e-Sharif and Herat operational.
However, Ankara has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, leaving questions unanswered about the broader implications of this decision for Turkey’s relationship with both the Taliban and the international community.
