Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Ambassador to Afghanistan OKADA Takashi made a covert visit to Kabul recently to hold talks with the Taliban and others, and to make observations of the situation on the ground in Afghanistan.

The talks were held with senior members of the Taliban, including Amir Khan Muttaqi and Abdul Kabir, from May 15 to 19 and explained Japan’s humanitarian assistance it is providing through international organizations, the foreign ministry in Tokyo said.

Ambassador Okada asked  for assurances on the safety of Japanese nationals and local staff and requested quick and safe passage for those who wish to leave the country.  

Okada also expressed his deep concerns on recent restrictions on girl’s access to education and women’s appearances in public. He emphasized that in order forthe Taliban to engage with the international community, it is essential to respect the rights of all Afghan people including women and minorities, to build an inclusive political system, and to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a hotbed for terrorism.

In response, the Taliban side expressed their gratitude for the assistance from Japan and said that the Taliban will continue to address requests from the international community, including the issue of girls’ education.

Okada also exchanged views with Hamid Karzai, the former President of Afghanistan.

Okada said Japan will continue to make its utmost efforts to secure the safety of Japanese nationals and local staff and provide necessary support for their departure, as well as to support the people in Afghanistan through engagement with the Taliban.