The United Arab Emirates has officially accepted the credentials of Mawlawi Badruddin Haqqani, the Taliban’s new ambassador to Afghanistan, marking the UAE as the second country, after China, to recognize the Taliban government. This move aligns with the UAE’s commitment to “building bridges” and aiding the Afghan people, as stated by Emirati officials.
Despite tensions with the Taliban, the United States has refrained from criticizing the UAE’s decision, noting that it will not alter US-UAE relations. The UAE has previously expanded its engagement with the Taliban, including managing Afghan airports through the Emirati firm GAAC following the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021.
The Taliban’s acceptance of an ambassador by the UAE represents a diplomatic boost for the largely isolated regime, which remains unrecognized by the United Nations and faces international criticism for restricting girls’ education. The UAE’s decision reflects its intent to offer humanitarian aid and support regional stability.
US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby confirmed that the UAE’s move would not impact the US relationship with the UAE, emphasizing that diplomatic decisions are sovereign choices for each country.
The UAE had previously recognized the Taliban’s government in the 1990s and is among a few nations hosting a Taliban diplomatic presence, including Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan. Nicaragua also appointed a non-resident ambassador to Afghanistan earlier this year.
Last week, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan further underscored the strengthening ties by visiting Afghanistan’s prime minister during his medical treatment in an Emirati hospital.
