OSLO
Norway has invited representatives of the Taliban to Oslo on January 23-25, 2022 for meetings with the Norwegian authorities and representatives of the international community.
The Norwegian foreign ministry announced this in a press release, while the Afghan press has also confirmed this, TLTP correspondent from Oslo reported.
The spokesman of the Afghan foreign ministry said that a delegation led by acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will leave Kabul for Oslo on Saturday. The spokesman also said that the visit is upon the invitation of the Norwegian government.
Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt in a press handout said, “We are extremely concerned about the grave situation in Afghanistan, where millions of people are facing a full-blown humanitarian disaster. In order to be able to help the civilian population in Afghanistan, it is essential that both the international community and Afghans from various parts of society engage in dialogue with the Taliban.”
“‘It will be clear about our expectations of the Taliban, particularly as regards girls’ education and human rights, such as women’s right to participate in society,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.
However, the Norwegian minister of foreign affairs made it clear: “These meetings do not represent a legitimisation or recognition of the Taliban.”
During the visit the Taliban will meet representatives of the Norwegian authorities, officials of allied countries, women leaders, journalists, and individuals working to safeguard human rights and address humanitarian, economic, social and political issues.
Earlier this week, a Norwegian delegation visited Kabul for talks on the dire humanitarian situation in the country.
