Taliban Economy Minister Acknowledges Negative Impact of Reduced Foreign Aid on Meeting People's Needs

Taliban Economy Minister Din Mohammad Hanif stated that the unprecedented reduction in humanitarian aid from the United States and other countries has negatively affected the group's ability to address the needs of the Afghan people.

Speaking to foreign aid organizations in Kabul, Hanif said the aid cuts have impacted people's lives and that international sanctions have pressured the Taliban administration. He made these remarks on Tuesday during a meeting titled "2026 Development Framework Coordination," attended by heads of UN offices in Afghanistan, European Union representatives, and officials from various international organizations. Hanif thanked the attendees and referenced UN statistics, noting that of $2.4 billion pledged by countries, only $870 million has been provided to aid institutions in Afghanistan so far.

Hanif highlighted multiple pressures on Afghanistan, including natural disasters, global sanctions, sharp declines in aid, and the expulsion of millions of migrants. Previously, the deputy economy minister had claimed the Taliban does not depend on foreign aid and meets needs through domestic revenues.

The United States was the largest donor to Afghanistan under the Biden administration. However, the Trump administration, which designates the Taliban as a terrorist group, cut aid over concerns of misuse. Several other countries have also reduced or halted assistance in response to alleged human rights violations, support for terrorism, and the Taliban's failure to adhere to international commitments and conventions.

Despite these challenges, Hanif emphasized the Taliban's success in managing the economy, stabilizing the national currency, and implementing infrastructure projects. He said over $1 billion was allocated last year, with $590 million spent on projects and the remainder on salaries, benefits, administrative costs, and equipment.

Hanif added: "We believe sustainable economic stability can only be achieved through self-reliance, a growth-oriented economy, and constructive cooperation with the international community."