In Kun.uz’s Geopolitics, Head of the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asia Studies Hamza Boltaev and Senior Research Fellow Dr. Islomkhon Gafarov discussed relations between the US and the Taliban, the West’s approach to Afghanistan and Uzbekistan’s role in this complex geopolitical issue.

 

Hamza Boltaev noted that while the strategic direction of US foreign policy towards Afghanistan has not changed during the Trump administration, there have been significant tactical changes in practice. “Under previous presidents, negotiations between the US and the Taliban were conducted through Doha or other cities. In those negotiations, inclusive government, human rights, women’s and children’s rights were mostly the main conditions. Trump, on the other hand, has embarked on a more pragmatic foreign policy, prioritising US interests ... The West’s democratic values have taken a back seat and now America is trying to take a strategic stance against Beijing in Afghanistan”, he said.

 

The Taliban have recently been trying to get closer to Germany, Islomkhon Ghafarov said. The European Union also needs direct dialogue with the Taliban, but finds it expedient to do so through Uzbekistan ... President Mirziyoyev proposed to involve Afghanistan in regional economic projects. This proposal was favourably evaluated in Europe. Because they are looking for solutions to security problems not only by military, but also by social and economic methods. “Soft power has become a priority strategy for Europe today”, he emphasised. Uzbekistan’s open and active position on the Afghan issue makes the country an important mediator in the region.

 

* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.