Press Releases
Situation in Afghanistan : Ambassador Okada’s Visit to Kabul
November 25, 2021
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Mr. OKADA Takashi visited Kabul to hold talks on a wide range of issues with senior members of the Taliban and other officials and to make observations of the situation on the ground from November 21 to 24. This visit was made upon the implementation of thorough safety measures.
- Ambassador Okada held talks with senior members of the Taliban, including Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, and urged them to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals and local staff and realize a quick and safe passage of those who wish to leave the country. In addition, Ambassador Okada stated that Japan is implementing assistance through international organizations to respond to the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Afghanistan. The Taliban side stated that they will ensure humanitarian access and the safety of aid workers. Further, Ambassador Okada stressed the importance of respecting the rights of all Afghan people including women and minorities, building an inclusive political system, and preventing Afghanistan from becoming a safehaven for terrorism, and emphasized that the Taliban is expected to take positive actions in this regard.
- Ambassador Okada also held talks with other officials including former President Hamid Karzai and Dr.Abdullah Abdullah.
- Japan will continue to have working-level discussions with the Taliban and continue to make our utmost efforts to secure the safety of Japanese nationals and local staff and provide necessary support for departure, as well as contribute to the stabilization of Afghanistan.