UN Secretary General's aide to visit Kabul for crucial talks

The UN Secretary General's senior aide is set to visit Kabul after Eid for high-stakes discussions that could determine the international recognition of the Taliban's rule. Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary General's Special Representative for Afghanistan, will engage with Taliban leaders to address key conditions for recognition, including combating terrorism, forming an inclusive government, and upholding human rights.

A recent UN conference in Doha emphasized the importance of these conditions, but the Taliban's absence stalled progress on appointing a UN special envoy for Afghanistan. The Taliban government argues against the appointment, citing its legitimacy and lack of ongoing conflict in the country.

Western diplomats advocate for the envoy's appointment to foster better engagement between the Taliban and the global community. Failure to cooperate may jeopardize the Taliban's chances of gaining international recognition, potentially isolating Afghanistan further.

Pakistan supports the envoy's appointment, contrary to the Taliban's stance. Tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban persist over cross-border attacks, with Pakistan recently conducting airstrikes on alleged terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan.

The impasse underscores the complex dynamics in the region, with proposals to rename the envoy as a coordinator to break the deadlock. The situation remains delicate, with the outcome of the upcoming talks in Kabul likely to shape Afghanistan's international standing.