Afghanistan Embassy Shuts Down In Delhi Citing ‘Persistent Challenges From India’

New Delhi: The Afghanistan Embassy on Friday announced that it is permanently closing down New Delhi due to “persistent challenges from the Indian government.”

In an official statement on the closure of its diplomatic mission in the national capital, the Afghan embassy said, “Effective from November 23, owing to persistent challenges from the Indian government.” “The decision follows the embassy’s earlier cessation of operations on September 30, a move made in the hope that the Indian government stance will favourably change to let the mission operate normally,” the statement reads.

The embassy further added that it was “cognisant” that some might attempt to label this move as an internal conflict, allegedly involving diplomats who switched allegiance to the Taliban, adding “that this decision is a result of broader changes in policy and interests”.

“To the Afghan citizens in India, the Embassy extends its sincere gratitude for their understanding and support throughout our mission’s tenure,” the embassy added.

Despite “limitations in resources and power”, the Afghan embassy said it has worked “tirelessly for their betterment and in the absence of a legitimate government in Kabul”. Earlier on October 1, the embassy released a statement stating that it had ended its operations in India. “It is with profound sadness, regret, and disappointment that the Embassy of Afghanistan in New Delhi announces this decision to cease its operations,” the statement said.

Citing lack of support from the host government and the failure to meet expectations in serving “Afghanistan’s interests”, the official statement said, “The embassy has experienced a notable absence of crucial support from the host government, which has hindered our ability to carry out our duties effectively.”