Saudi Arabia Resumes Diplomatic Activities in Afghanistan

On Sunday, December 23, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it would resume its diplomatic activities in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. The statement noted, "Based on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's desire to provide all services to its Afghan brothers, the decision to resume diplomatic missions in Kabul was made effective December 22." France's news agency reported that the Saudi Foreign Ministry did not respond to questions regarding the level of Riyadh's diplomatic presence in Kabul. Over three years ago, following the Taliban's resurgence, Riyadh recalled its diplomats and halted its embassy activities due to the "unstable situation" in Afghanistan. No country has yet recognized the Taliban government. The U.S. and the international community are calling for the formation of an inclusive government and respect for human rights in Afghanistan. Saudi Arabia, along with Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, were among the first countries to recognize the Taliban's rule in Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. The International Organization for Migration reports that millions of Afghans are in a state of displacement. The Taliban's experience in Afghanistan and its impact on U.S. policy towards Syria. The Taliban prevents women from studying medicine; the U.S. calls it unfair. The Taliban has submitted an official request to participate in the BRICS summit in Russia.