Ismatulla Irgashev, Uzbekistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, met with Eduards Stiprais, the European Union’s Special Representative for Central Asia, to discuss the ongoing situation in Afghanistan.

During the meeting, both sides highlighted the importance of maintaining dialogue on Afghan-related matters. Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the meeting took place on Monday, 12 May. According to the ministry’s statement, the two sides not only addressed regional issues but also stressed the need to expand bilateral cooperation on Afghanistan-related matters.

The ministry added that both Uzbekistan and EU representatives called for continued, regular, and constructive dialogue to tackle issues concerning Afghanistan, reaffirming the need for ongoing consultations.

While Uzbekistan has not formally recognised the Taliban government, it aims to preserve and strengthen its relations with the group and has held multiple meetings with officials from various countries on this matter.

Recently, Uzbekistan’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan also met with the Polish Foreign Ministry’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, where both sides emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation on Afghan-related issues.