Amir Khan Muttaqi, Acting Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, has acknowledged that countries which fought against the Taliban for nearly two decades are unlikely to extend full support and goodwill to the current government.

Speaking at a religious school, Muttaqi reflected on Afghanistan’s foreign policy achievements while tempering expectations for rapid normalization with former opponents. He noted that, with the exception of one country in the region, Afghanistan now maintains active diplomatic missions across its neighboring areas.

“If any country chooses not to establish relations with the Islamic Emirate, that decision rests with that country,” Muttaqi said. “Considering that we fought against nearly 50 countries for about 20 years, we should not expect those same countries to welcome us with open arms today.”

The acting foreign minister used the occasion to stress the critical role of education in Afghanistan’s future stability and development. He called for a balanced approach that combines religious studies with modern sciences, arguing that national progress depends on advancing both simultaneously.

“Afghanistan’s progress depends on the simultaneous advancement of both religious and modern sciences,” he said. “If we have proper education and build an educated society, no power in the world will be able to dominate us.”

Muttaqi urged students to stay informed about regional and global affairs and to prepare for future challenges, emphasizing that strength in political and other fields requires robust modern education alongside traditional religious learning.

The minister also highlighted what he described as key achievements of the Islamic Emirate, including the establishment of nationwide security, promotion of national unity, successful management of returning migrants, and improvements in the economic situation.

“For the survival and strengthening of any system, and for the stability of society, security is a fundamental principle,” Muttaqi stated. “Today, security has been established throughout Afghanistan, and no opposition group controls any part of the country’s territory.”

The remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the Islamic Emirate to expand diplomatic ties and economic cooperation with the international community. Taliban officials have repeatedly signaled their desire for constructive engagement, even as recognition of their government remains limited on the global stage. (ILKHA)