A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Hajj and Religious Affairs of Afghanistan's interim government visited Uzbekistan on March 16, upon the invitation of Sheikh Nuriddin Khaliqnazar, Chairman of the Office of Muslims of Uzbekistan.
د ارشاد، حج او اوقافو وزارت د سرپرست مولوي نورمحمد ثاقب په مشرۍ د علماوو يو پلاوى چې د غړیو شمېر یې لسو تنو ته رسېږي، د ازبيکستان د عالمانو د ادارې د مشر مفتي شيخ نورالدين خليق نظر په رسمي بلنه دغه هېواد ته سفر کړی.
— باختر اطلاعاتي آژانس (@bnapashto) March 16, 2024
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This visit comes amidst recent diplomatic engagements between Uzbekistan and the Taliban, with Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov meeting Taliban leaders in Kabul on March 12-13.
Political analysts Farhod Karimov and Kabiljon Isayev shared their insights with Daryo regarding Uzbekistan's relations with the Taliban. Isayev, the founder of the "Harmonious Education" project, emphasized the potential for Tashkent to become a key player in Central Asia's neutral zone chloride initiative. He highlighted the importance of sectoral diplomacy with the Taliban, acknowledging their religious and political influence.
Isayev noted, "Tashkent is the closest candidate city in Central Asia to receive the chloride of the neutral zone." He stressed the need for effective networking and engagement with the Taliban, considering their current role in Afghan governance.
Afghan expert Suhrob Boronov raised questions about the appropriateness of engaging with the Taliban.
"Presently, Uzbekistan finds itself in a position where waiting for global recognition of the Taliban is not a viable option. With the Taliban currently at the helm in Afghanistan, they hold significant sway over both the Afghan populace and the political establishment. Despite any reservations, it's undeniable that the Taliban has managed to instill a degree of stability in the region.
However, the complexities of the Afghan situation present Uzbekistan with pressing concerns. Issues such as the utilization of transboundary rivers and the development of the railway network passing through Afghanistan to reach Pakistani ports are of paramount importance for Uzbekistan's interests. Given the gravity of these matters, Uzbekistan cannot afford to adopt a passive stance," emphasized the political analyst.
Karimov echoed the importance of Uzbekistan's relations with the Taliban, highlighting the mutual interest between the two parties. He emphasized the need for objective assessment and diplomatic engagement, commending Uzbekistan's proactive approach to addressing regional issues.
"The government of Uzbekistan should be admired for their proactive stance in resolving issues," Karimov stated.
He emphasized that Uzbekistan's engagement with the Taliban serves both parties' interests and acts as a stabilizing factor in the region.
The Taliban delegation, led by Minister of Hajj and Waqf Affairs Nur Muhammad Saqib, engaged in discussions with Uzbek counterparts on bilateral relations and cooperation between Afghan and Uzbek religious scholars. The agenda included exchanges on mosque management, madrassa education, and religious initiatives.
Furthermore, the Taliban delegation is scheduled to visit mosques and madrassas in Tashkent, Bukhara, and Samarkand, furthering cultural and religious exchanges between the two nations.
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