Taliban envoy to lead delegation to Brussels for talks

Abdul Qahar Balkhi, spokesman for Afghanistan's foreign ministry under Taliban rule, will lead a delegation to Brussels. The visit marks another step in Taliban engagement with Western capitals, though the group remains unrecognised by most countries. The exact agenda for talks with EU officials has not been disclosed. The delegation's presence in Brussels signals continued diplomatic outreach by Kabul despite international isolation on human rights grounds. Taliban officials have sought to normalise relations with European governments since the group's return to power in 2021.