The Taliban‑run Foreign Ministry said on Monday it has received the credentials of Saif Muhammad Al Ketbi, the newly appointed charge d’affaires of the United Arab Emirates to Afghanistan. In the meeting, Amir Khan Muttaqi emphasized expanding bilateral trade relations.
Al Ketbi succeeds Essa Salem Al Dhaheri, who previously served in the role since September 2018.
In a statement, the ministry quoted Muttaqi as saying there are “multiple opportunities for expanding bilateral relations in various fields” that should be seized. He also stressed the need to strengthen commercial ties and ease visa procedures for Afghan citizens.
Al Ketbi was quoted saying he will focus on new projects in trade and transit between the two sides.
While the UAE has not formally recognized the Taliban rule, it accepted the credentials of the Taliban‑appointed ambassador in August 2024.
The UAE’s foreign ministry did not issue comment on Monday.
