Kabul, Afghanistan: Deputy Foreign Minister of the Taliban government, Abbas Stanikzai, has expressed a desire to establish good relations with the administration of the newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking at an event in a religious seminary on Saturday, Stanikzai referred to Trump as a “good man” and emphasized the Taliban's willingness to engage positively with his leadership.
"Friendships and hostilities are not permanent," Stanikzai stated. "In the past, we fought a war with the Soviet Union, resulting in the loss of millions of lives, but today, we share good relations with Russia."
Stanikzai further urged the United States to cease interference in Afghanistan's internal affairs and formally recognize the Afghan government led by the Taliban. He expressed hope that such recognition would pave the way for improved relations between the two nations.
The Taliban official reiterated the group's focus on fostering international relationships based on mutual respect and non-interference, marking another appeal for global acknowledgment of their governance.
This development comes as the Taliban continues its diplomatic efforts to gain legitimacy on the world stage, facing resistance from many countries over concerns regarding human rights and governance policies.