Belgium Begins Security Checks on Taliban Delegation Ahead of Brussels Migration Talks

Belgium has received the list of Taliban delegation members from the European Commission for a planned trip to Brussels. Security services in the country are now carrying out preliminary assessments on those named in the list.

The delegation is set to engage in discussions with European Union officials focused on migration matters, including the return of Afghan refugees to their country. This development comes as nearly 20 European Union member states apply pressure for stricter policies on migration and mechanisms to deport Afghan nationals whose asylum claims have been rejected.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot has said Belgium does not issue visas to Taliban representatives as a matter of principle. He added that exceptions could be made in this case since Belgium serves as host to the institutions of the European Union.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner described the visa issuance process as complex. Brunner stated that there is no choice but to engage in talks with the Taliban concerning migration, even though the group lacks international recognition.

The invitation extended to the delegation has attracted criticism from a range of European officials, political parties, and non-governmental organizations. These critics contend that the visit may amount to a retreat from the European Union's human rights values and serve to legitimize the Taliban.

No formal visa applications have been submitted by the Taliban delegation so far. The security assessments remain at a preliminary stage.