Brussels, Belgium – Web Desk: Belgium has issued five visas to members of an Afghan Taliban delegation to attend a European Union meeting in Brussels, marking the first time the bloc will host representatives of the group since its return to power in Afghanistan nearly five years ago.
According to international media reports, the visas granted to the Afghan officials are limited in scope and duration. A spokesperson for Belgium’s Foreign Ministry said the visas are “limited territorial validity visas” valid only for Belgium and for a single day.
The spokesperson added that, for security reasons, the exact date of the Afghan delegation’s visit will not be disclosed.
The meeting is expected to focus on technical discussions, including procedures related to the return of Afghan refugees. European officials have emphasized that the engagement is intended to address practical issues and does not represent a shift in the European Union’s policy toward the Taliban administration.
The European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, said the gathering is purely technical in nature and should not be interpreted as recognition of the Taliban government.
The planned talks come as European countries continue to grapple with migration challenges and seek cooperation on issues involving Afghan nationals residing across the continent. The meeting is likely to attract international attention given the sensitive diplomatic and humanitarian issues surrounding Afghanistan.
