Shillong, October 1: The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has announced its decision to cease operations in India, effective from Sunday, according to an official statement released on Saturday.
As per India Today, expressing regret and disappointment, the statement explained that this decision was made due to a lack of support from the host government and the inability to meet the expectations in serving Afghanistan’s interests. The embassy cited an absence of crucial support from the host government, hindering their effective functioning.
This decision, though regrettable, was made after careful consideration, taking into account the historic ties and long-standing partnership between Afghanistan and India.
The embassy also highlighted the absence of diplomatic support in India and the lack of a “legitimate” functioning government in Kabul. Challenges, such as personnel and resource shortages, were cited as further reasons for the decision.
Despite this development, the embassy emphasized that emergency consular services for Afghan citizens would remain operational until the custodial authority of the embassy is transferred to the host country.
The departure of the ambassador and other senior diplomats for Europe and the United States, where they gained asylum, preceded this decision, as confirmed by three embassy officials. At least five Afghan diplomats have left India.
The embassy had earlier informed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) about its decision to close operations in New Delhi, emphasizing that this communication accurately represented their decision-making process and the factors leading to the closure. Additionally, the embassy urged the government to safeguard the interests of Afghans residing, working, studying, trading, and engaging in various activities in India.
