Gambiaj.com – (KABUL) – In a significant development, the Taliban has expressed its interest in attending the 15th meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and has requested an invitation for a representative from the Kabul interim government to attend the Banjul Summit.

This request was conveyed by Taliban deputy chief Abdul Salam Hanafi during a meeting with Tariq Ali Bakhit, the deputy and special envoy of the OIC for Afghanistan.

The meeting, which took place recently in Kabul, saw discussions on expanding relations between the Islamic Emirate and OIC countries. Mr. Hanafi emphasized the importance of participation in the upcoming OIC meeting, scheduled to be held in Gambia. He highlighted the Islamic Emirate’s commitment to engaging with the international community through such platforms.

During the visit, discussions also touched upon key issues such as ensuring security, combating Daesh, and the role of women in various sectors including health, education, and trade. The interim government assured the OIC delegation of its commitment to protecting women’s fundamental rights, with the acting Minister of Vice and Virtue reaffirming that women’s rights are more secure under the Islamic Emirate’s rule.

The visit of the OIC delegation is seen as a positive engagement with the interim government. Political analysts suggest that accepting certain preconditions could lead to the opening of more channels for engagement with the Taliban-led government. The Taliban reiterated its commitment to Sharia rights for women and emphasized its stance against any violation of these rights.

Officials of the Islamic Emirate also called on the OIC to support efforts in expanding relations between Islamic countries and the interim government. The visit marks a significant step in the Taliban’s efforts to engage with the international community and strengthen its diplomatic ties.