Islamic Emirate's Doha Ambassador Calls UN Blacklist Obstacle to Global Engagement

Suhail Shaheen, acting ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in Doha, described the United Nations blacklist as a major obstacle to positive interactions between the Islamic Emirate and the international community.

Shaheen called for the removal of senior Islamic Emirate officials' names from the list in the coming year to enable their participation in meetings and necessary trips abroad. "The existence of the United Nations blacklist regarding Islamic Emirate members is an obstacle in positive interaction between the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the international community," he said. "This list has so far played no role in solving issues and should be removed so the way for travels and diplomacy is opened."

The Islamic Emirate's request follows previous emphasis by China's representative at a UN Security Council meeting on removing names from the blacklist. According to the latest UN Security Council Sanctions Committee list, 22 senior Islamic Emirate officials, including the prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister, remain blacklisted.

Political experts offered varied views. Yusuf Amin Zazi said a general discussion should occur directly and face-to-face with the United Nations, without intermediaries, to address mutual demands and criticisms. Muangul Samkani suggested the Islamic Emirate raise the issue through major countries and proper diplomacy, noting the UN is composed of such nations.