Afghanistan's Islamic Emirate is strengthening its relations with neighboring and regional countries through a policy focused on economic cooperation and regional connectivity, government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said during a virtual media briefing from Kandahar.

Mujahid said the Islamic Emirate seeks constructive relations with all countries, emphasizing that ties with neighboring states remain a priority due to shared economic interests and geographic proximity.

"We seek relations with all countries. Regional and neighboring countries are of particular importance because our economic ties and interests are interconnected," Mujahid said. "Afghanistan assures that its territory will not be used against any country, and our policy is centered on the economy and regional connectivity."

He stressed that the government's foreign policy is guided by Afghanistan's national interests and aims to expand political and economic cooperation across the region.

Addressing security issues, Mujahid described the country's security situation as stable, saying the Islamic Emirate maintains full control over Afghanistan's territory.

He said there are no significant security challenges along Afghanistan's internationally recognized borders or the disputed Durand Line with Pakistan, adding that border forces continue to safeguard the country's territorial integrity.

"Our people should have no concerns in this regard. Our border forces are defending the country's territorial integrity with great restraint," he said.

Despite the government's efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic engagement, Afghanistan has yet to secure broad international recognition nearly five years after the Islamic Emirate returned to power.

Political analyst Aziz Maarij said greater international acceptance would likely require policy changes on several issues that continue to concern the international community.

"The current global environment requires changes, particularly regarding human rights, girls' education, women's work, and inclusive governance. That is also why the international community has not recognized the Islamic Emirate," Maarij said.

The Islamic Emirate has expanded political and economic contacts with a number of regional and other countries since taking power in August 2021. However, Russia remains the only country to have formally recognized the Islamic Emirate government, while no other state has extended official recognition.

The administration has consistently argued that its priorities are maintaining national security, strengthening regional economic integration, and ensuring Afghanistan's territory is not used to threaten other countries, as it continues efforts to broaden diplomatic engagement and attract international cooperation. (ILKHA)