INTERNATIONAL — February 20, 2026
Islamic Emirate Envoy in Doha Highlights Historical Ties with Qatar, Seeks Expanded Cooperation
Suhail Shaheen, acting ambassador of the Islamic Emirate in Doha, highlighted longstanding ties with Qatar and called for expanded cooperation in investment, trade, education and health. Experts and a prior Qatari official statement underscore Qatar's bridging role in Afghanistan's diplomacy and aid efforts.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with ToloNews — 2 min read

The acting ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in Doha, Suhail Shaheen, stated that ties between Qatar and the Islamic Emirate have roots dating back to previous years, beginning during the prior Emirate period and advancing to a new stage in recent years, particularly with the opening of the political office in Doha.
Shaheen said both countries aim to expand cooperation in investment, trade, specialized education, health and other sectors. He noted that Qatar currently supports Afghanistan in reconstruction and humanitarian aid, covering areas such as water supply, trade, education, vocational training and health, with plans for further development.
Political experts expressed optimism about the partnership. Majid Kohistani, a political analyst, said Afghanistan and Qatar have maintained good relations, with Qatar consistently cooperating on dialogue and diplomacy, potentially elevating Afghanistan's regional position. Akhter Mohammad Rasikh, another political expert, described Qatar as a key bridge between Western and Arab countries in Afghanistan's political, diplomatic and economic relations, guiding it toward trade, international recognition and security.
Separately, the Qatari Minister of State for International Cooperation previously met with the deputy head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). He affirmed Doha's role as host for Afghanistan-related talks and pledged continued support for UNAMA's Kabul mission as a political, humanitarian and logistical partner.
Read the original reporting at ToloNews →
Reliability assessment
Single source with direct, on-record quotes from named official Suhail Shaheen and named experts Majid Kohistani and Akhter Mohammad Rasikh, plus reference to a specific prior meeting with the Qatari Minister of State; concrete details on sectors and historical context, not high-stakes or volatile.
The source language reads straight.
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ToloNews
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International — Qatar, Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Suhail Shaheen, Diplomacy, UNAMA
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