Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, has addressed the controversy surrounding the exclusion of female journalists from a recent press conference in New Delhi. Muttaqi described the incident as a ‘technical issue,’ attributing it to a last-minute scheduling change and a pre-determined list of invitees. He reassured that no individual’s rights are being denied. Following significant backlash, a second, more inclusive press conference was organized, allowing female reporters to participate.
During his visit, Muttaqi met with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss vital bilateral matters including trade, humanitarian aid, and security. This engagement marks a key step in the Taliban government’s outreach to regional partners amid international scrutiny of its domestic policies.
On the sensitive topic of women’s education in Afghanistan, Muttaqi stated that millions of girls are currently enrolled in educational institutions, including religious seminaries. He clarified that while some educational avenues are temporarily restricted, there is no religious prohibition against education itself, referring to it as a matter of ‘second order’ for now. The Indian government has since clarified its non-involvement in the organization of the initial press briefing. The Taliban’s governance has drawn considerable international criticism for its stringent restrictions on women’s rights since their return to power.