U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that he believes the world is united in pressuring the Taliban, following discussions with officials from Pakistan, China, and Russia. Blinken met on Thursday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly with Pakistan's Foreign Minister, and he had talks on Wednesday evening with ministers from the other four permanent members of the Security Council, including Russia and China.
Blinken told reporters, "I believe there is a very strong unity in approach and unity in purpose." He added, "The Taliban claims it is seeking legitimacy and support from the international community. The relationship it has with the international community will be determined by the actions it takes."
Blinken reiterated U.S. priorities, which include allowing Afghans and foreigners to leave Afghanistan, respecting the rights of women, girls, and minorities, and ensuring Afghanistan is not used by extremists like al-Qaeda again.
The State Department stated that Blinken emphasized "the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement" during talks with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Pakistan has called for engaging with the Taliban and lifting the freeze on Afghan assets, but Qureshi said earlier this week that there is no rush to recognize the new Taliban government.
Qureshi said at the beginning of his meeting with Blinken, "We need to find a way to work together to achieve our common goal of peace and stability.” Russia and China have taken a cautious approach in dealing with the armed group that took power in Afghanistan this summer and have expressed concerns about long-term Islamic extremism.
