Italy turns to Doha as its diplomatic lifeline for Afghanistan’s future
Italy has strengthened its diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan by operating from Doha, Qatar. Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, security risks have prevented Italy from reopening its embassy in Kabul, leaving Qatar as the central hub for engagement.
Ambassador Sabrina Ugolini outlined this strategy at the 18th Conference of Italian Ambassadors in Rome, highlighting Italy’s active role in multilateral talks and aid coordination for the Afghan people.
Qatar has long served as the key diplomatic base for discussions on Afghanistan. The country has hosted the Taliban’s political office since 2013 and was the site of the 2020 Doha Agreement. With no embassy in Kabul, Italy now manages its Afghan affairs from Doha, aligning with allies like the US, Germany, and France.
Italy participates in two UN-led working groups under the Doha Process. One focuses on boosting the private sector, where women’s entrepreneurship remains limited but is seen as vital for economic progress. The other targets counternarcotics, an area where Taliban authorities have shown measurable efforts to cut opium poppy production and disrupt drug trafficking networks.
The Taliban’s de facto government has taken steps to reduce Afghanistan’s opium trade, a shift noted in international discussions. Meanwhile, Italy continues to channel humanitarian aid through its Doha office, ensuring support reaches Afghan civilians despite the ongoing political challenges.
Italy’s approach reflects a broader international strategy, using Doha as a secure platform for diplomacy and aid. The country remains engaged in Afghanistan’s economic and security issues, working alongside the Taliban and other nations. For now, Qatar stays the operational centre for these efforts, with no immediate plans to return to Kabul.
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