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Mujahid: Afghanistan “Undoubtedly” Better Off Five Years After U.S. Withdrawal
Sunday, 30 August, 2026. Permalink
DELHI: Afghanistan is “undoubtedly” in a better position five years after the withdrawal of U.S. forces, although the country continues to face serious challenges, Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in an interview with United News of India.
Mujahid said the departure of foreign forces had restored Afghanistan’s independence and placed responsibility for rebuilding the country in Afghan hands.
He said Kabul now seeks to normalize diplomatic relations with Washington, including the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul and Afghanistan’s diplomatic mission in Washington.
Mujahid also called for the lifting of sanctions on Afghanistan and the return of frozen Afghan assets, arguing that these steps would contribute to improved relations with the international community.
The spokesman criticized wartime portrayals of Afghanistan in Western media and called on foreign governments and journalists to engage directly with Afghan authorities and better understand their policies and objectives.
Regarding Afghanistan’s relations with Russia, Mujahid described Moscow as an important regional partner and said Kabul wants Russian companies to expand investment and cooperation in trade, reconstruction, fuel and energy.
Mujahid also rejected the idea that Afghanistan should change its domestic policies as a condition for international recognition, saying the country’s religious beliefs, laws and internal interests should be respected.
Courtesy The Kabul Times
