RASC News Agency: In a significant diplomatic blow to the Taliban regime, senior Saudi officials declined to meet with Amir Khan Motaqqi, the Taliban’s de facto Foreign Minister, during his recent visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Well-placed sources revealed to the media that despite persistent lobbying by the Taliban’s diplomatic mission in Riyadh, the Saudi government resolutely avoided any formal engagement with Motaqqi and his entourage. The trip, which was orchestrated with considerable anticipation by the Taliban, aimed to secure diplomatic recognition and bolster bilateral ties with one of the Muslim world’s most influential states. However, the visit failed to produce any substantive outcomes, with Saudi officials refusing even minimal political interaction.
According to reports, while logistical arrangements were made for religious observances such as Motaqqi’s visit to Masjid al-Haramvno political meetings or diplomatic receptions were extended. Observers have attributed this conspicuous disengagement to Saudi Arabia’s cautious and strategic approach toward the Taliban, whose regime remains unrecognized and widely condemned for its human rights abuses and extremist policies. In stark contrast to the actual events, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid attempted to frame the visit as a diplomatic success, claiming it marked “an important step toward enhancing cordial relations between the two nations.” He further asserted that Saudi authorities had extended a “warm reception and high-level protocol” to Motaqqi a portrayal seen by many as an effort to save face amid diplomatic failure.
Motaqqi’s presence in Saudi Arabia, from March 23 to April 10, was facilitated under a special travel exemption granted by the United Nations Security Council. He and several other senior Taliban leaders remain subject to international sanctions, with foreign travel permitted only under specific UN authorization. The Kingdom’s deliberate diplomatic silence underscores the Taliban’s continued isolation on the world stage. While the regime seeks legitimacy and support, its oppressive domestic policies particularly toward women, minorities, and the press have prompted widespread international condemnation. The failure of Motaqqi’s mission illustrates the growing gap between the Taliban’s ambitions and global political realities.
