The Ministry of Interior of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announced that First Deputy Minister Mohammad Nabi Omari met with Richard Lindsay, the United Kingdom’s Special Representative for Afghanistan.

According to Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani, the discussions covered the current situation in Afghanistan and the wider region, as well as the UK’s ongoing humanitarian assistance and support for Afghan refugees through United Nations channels.

“The two sides exchanged views on the current situation in Afghanistan and the region. They also highlighted the UK's humanitarian assistance and support for Afghan refugees via the UN,” Qani said. “In conclusion, both parties underscored the importance of enhancing cooperation and maintaining lasting relations.”

Observers have described Lindsay’s visit as a constructive development in improving ties between the Islamic Emirate and the United Kingdom, marking one of the most high-level exchanges in recent months.

In a separate meeting, Richard Lindsay also met with Abdul Latif Nazari, Technical Deputy Minister of Economy, to discuss ongoing British humanitarian projects in Afghanistan. Lindsay noted that the UK has spent around 16 billion Afghanis on humanitarian programs, with the largest share directed toward the health sector.

Nazari stated that the discussions also focused on support for returning refugees and on expanding economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

The meetings come shortly after the UK’s Political Office for Afghanistan and Pakistan announced that Lindsay’s visit would center on regional stability, humanitarian aid, internet access, and the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.

Diplomatic analysts suggest that the talks reflect a cautious but pragmatic approach by both sides to maintain dialogue and explore areas of mutual interest amid the evolving situation in Afghanistan. (ILKHA)