Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi has told Kyodo News that his interim government has achieved some successes since the withdrawal of American and other troops three years ago, and the resumption of governmental control by the Taliban.

“We have secured security with a strong security force and the support of the people,” he said. August 14 is a national holiday to mark what the Taliban see as its “victory” over the United States. The government also marked the day with a ceremony on the site of a large military base once used by US forces.

He also pointed out that his government recently attended a conference hosted by the United Nations for the first time. This, he said, show that the gap with the international community is closing and he expressed confidence in the future for the government and its diplomacy. Diplomatic relations with neighboring countries are at the “level of a recognized government,” he added. No country has recognized the Taliban-led government.

This is mainly due to its human rights record, its treatment of women and its legitimacy. The government has suspended education for women above high school age and has also restricted women’s employment in the United Nations and non-governmental organizations. The international community has criticized this and has yet to recognize the government.