English Foreign Minister Heads to Qatar to Secure Evacuation from Afghanistan

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] Dominic Raab, the UK Foreign Secretary, has departed for Qatar to discuss the evacuation of British nationals and Afghans remaining in Afghanistan.

According to major foreign media, on the 2nd (local time), after meeting with Sheikh Mohammed Al Thani, Qatar's Foreign Minister, Raab held a joint press conference and stated, "It is necessary to engage with the Taliban regarding the situation in Afghanistan."

He said that during the talks, they discussed ensuring Afghanistan does not become a terrorist haven, responding to the humanitarian crisis, maintaining regional stability, and ensuring the Taliban keep their promise to form an inclusive government.

Raab is also scheduled to meet with the Emir of Qatar. Since 2013, Qatar has hosted the Taliban's political office; although it does not officially recognize the Taliban as a state, it encourages dialogue with them.

Raab is expected to receive briefings from British diplomats in Qatar regarding negotiations with the Taliban. The British Embassy in Afghanistan has currently relocated to Doha and is operating from there.

He told reporters, "Our immediate priority is to secure safe passage for British nationals and Afghans who worked for the UK," adding that he will engage with leaders of neighboring countries to establish routes through third countries.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.