The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has once again reiterated its demand for representation at the United Nations, asserting that it is both a necessity and a right.

Suhail Shaheen, the acting head of the Islamic Emirate’s embassy in Qatar, emphasized that appointing a representative to the UN would allow for constructive engagement on a wide range of issues.

Speaking to media on the sidelines of ongoing diplomatic efforts in Doha, Shaheen stated, “The presence of a representative from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan at the United Nations is both a necessity and a right of the Islamic Emirate’s government. Through such a representative, solutions to various issues can be pursued.”

The statement comes amid ongoing international deliberations on Afghanistan’s political status and engagement with the global community. The Islamic Emirate, which took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, has not yet been recognized by the United Nations or any major global powers. Its current UN seat remains occupied by the previous government’s envoy.

In response to the Islamic Emirate’s demands, political analysts have highlighted the need for diplomatic dialogue to bridge the gap between Kabul and the international community. “These issues cannot be resolved through isolation. Engagement is key to resolving the differences,” said one analyst.

At the recently held fourth Doha meeting on Afghanistan, the Islamic Emirate raised three key demands: formal recognition of its caretaker government, the lifting of economic sanctions, and the unfreezing of Afghan assets held abroad.

In contrast, the United Nations reaffirmed its position that any steps toward recognition must be preceded by measurable progress on human rights, counter-narcotics efforts, and the establishment of a truly inclusive government that reflects the diversity of Afghan society.

As international discussions on Afghanistan continue, the status of the country’s representation at the UN remains a point of contention, with broader implications for aid delivery, diplomatic recognition, and regional stability. (ILKHA)