Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi, received Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador to Afghanistan, Masamoto Kenichi, in Kabul on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced.

During the meeting, Minister Muttaqi extended warm congratulations to Ambassador Masamoto on his new posting and reaffirmed the Islamic Emirate’s strong desire to expand broad and positive relations with Japan, particularly in the political and economic spheres.

The Japanese envoy responded by commending the improved security situation across Afghanistan, notable achievements in the fight against narcotics production and trafficking, and ongoing development in various sectors under the current administration.

Ambassador Masamoto pledged to work toward further strengthening bilateral ties between Japan and Afghanistan throughout his tenure in Kabul.

Japan is one of the few countries that has maintained a diplomatic presence in Kabul following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, though it has not formally recognized the Islamic Emirate government. Tokyo continues to provide humanitarian assistance and supports selected development and de-mining projects through international organizations.

No additional details on specific initiatives or agreements were disclosed following the courtesy call. (ILKHA)