Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi says that recognizing the Taliban government is difficult for foreign countries because of the movement's history.
According to the official, the main reason for foreign nations' reluctant approach to the present government is two decades of war with the Taliban movement, which resulted in the deaths of thousands of soldiers and the loss of billions of dollars.
"For this reason, it is natural that the issue of recognizing Afghanistan is a little difficult for them and it will take time," local media quoted Muttaqi as saying on Tuesday. "No official announcement has been made yet, and this has its own factors. A number of countries are under the influence of some countries or they have not made an official announcement because of some matters and other issues."
The minister, however, showed optimism that the Taliban government would soon be recognized by foreign powers, given that the Islamic Emirate was increasing its diplomatic relations with neighboring countries.
He added that the Taliban has built trade relations with several nations, and ambassadors of neighboring states serve in Kabul, and Taliban diplomats serve in the respective countries.
Taliban has its diplomats in China, Kazakhstan, Iran, Turkey, Pakistan, Russia, and a number of African and Arab states.
Confirming the movement's diplomatic presence abroad, the Taliban's chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said: "The Islamic Emirate has sent diplomats to at least 14 countries and efforts are underway to take charge of other diplomatic missions abroad... Diplomats of the former government are continuing their activities in coordination with the Foreign Ministry."
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