Concerns are mounting regarding the German government’s approach to Afghanistan, with opposition voices alleging a tacit recognition of the Taliban regime. The Green Party is accusing the government of subtly legitimizing the internationally condemned Taliban through the resumption of deportation flights to Afghanistan.
Omid Nouripour, Vice President of the Bundestag and a Green Party representative, has voiced strong criticism, stating that discussions between the German government and authorities in Kabul represent a step towards normalizing the rule of a terrorist organization, according to a report in “Der Spiegel”.
In a written response to Nouripour, the German Foreign Office acknowledged that a recent deportation flight from Leipzig to Kabul was facilitated primarily through the mediation of the Emirate of Qatar. However, the Foreign Office confirmed that the government maintains “technical-level contact” with representatives of the “de facto” government in Afghanistan.
To enable future deportation flights, Berlin has reportedly agreed to allow two consular officials authorized by the Taliban to be stationed in Berlin and Bonn. These officials are intended to issue the necessary passports for subsequent deportations. Sources within the German government have indicated that, following the deportation of 81 Afghan citizens at the end of July, the new authorities are pursuing “pragmatic approaches” to advance German interests. The practice continues to spark debate about the balance between immigration control and diplomatic considerations.