EU Plans Brussels Meeting With Taliban to Discuss Deportations to Afghanistan

The proposed meeting would focus on logistical and procedural aspects of deporting Afghan nationals from EU member states. No specific date has been announced, but the discussions are expected to take place in the coming months.

Controversial Engagement With Taliban

The EU’s engagement with the Taliban marks a delicate diplomatic maneuver, as the bloc does not formally recognize the group as Afghanistan’s legitimate government. However, practical cooperation has been deemed necessary to address migration and security concerns.

The January meeting in Kabul laid the groundwork for further dialogue, with EU officials seeking assurances from Taliban authorities regarding the treatment of deported individuals. The Taliban, meanwhile, has sought financial and humanitarian concessions in exchange for cooperation.

The Brussels talks would represent a rare instance of Taliban delegates being hosted in an EU capital, signaling a cautious but pragmatic approach by European policymakers.