Taliban succumbs to world demands

Dr. Jassim Taqui

DG Al-Bab Institute for Strategic Studies

Islamabad, September 25, 2021: Following a rigid first tenure in 1996-2001,  the Taliban is now succumbing to world demand to change and observe UNSC demands about human rights, inclusive government, respect of minorities, and women rights to education and work.

The assurance was given by Acting Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund in a meeting with the special envoys from Pakistan, China, and Russia in Kabul on Tuesday.

Both the Chinese and Russian envoys were “satisfied” with their interaction with the Taliban leadership. They also visited markets and different ministries and were surprised to find a normal situation on the ground.

 

The Taliban agreed to include members of all ethnicities in the government. However, those who were involved in corruption in the last 20 years would not be invited to join the setup.

 

The special envoys of Pakistan, China, and Russia were also told that there would be no restriction on the girls’ education but that would be done as per “Sharia.”

 

Indeed, these concessions are mammoth and never expected to come from the Taliban. However, the unified international stance emerged as a clear victor. Consequently, the Taliban should be given a chance to reform itself under the watchful eyes of the UNSC.