Taliban discuss frozen funds with int'l officials in Norway

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A Taliban delegation discussed frozen Afghan assets, sanctions, and humanitarian assistance with US Treasury officials in Norway, according to the Afghan foreign ministry, which is led by the Taliban.

On Saturday, a delegation made its way for a three-day visit to Norway - the delegation is headed by the foreign minister of Kabul's interim government, Amir Khan Muttaqi, and the aim is to deliberate on the provision of humanitarian aid as well as to discuss political, educational, and economic issues. 

"Serious and effective talks were also held with senior US Treasury officials on frozen assets, economic sanctions, humanitarian aid, and expediting economic activities to ease restrictions on banking transactions and the free flow of money," the ministry said in a statement.

In addition, the delegation met with several officials from different countries in their visit to discuss economic and humanitarian assistance, security issues, and human rights in Afghanistan. 

Afghanistan's efforts to eradicate corruption were praised by Washington, London, the European Union as well as charity organizations. Their progress in security, education, and other vital areas were also praised, according to the ministry. 

"As a result of this meeting, the Afghan Government was able to present its policies, achievements, and plans for the future in direct response to the concerns of the world and resolve many misunderstandings," the ministry stated.

Afghan delegation meet Western officials, humanitarian aid is priority

The Taliban met Norwegian officials on Sunday as well as representatives from the United States, France, Britain, Germany, Italy, and the European Union during their first visit to Europe since the US' hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Foreign Minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi has been leading the Afghan delegation.

According to a US State Department official, the agenda included "the formation of a representative political system, responses to urgent humanitarian and economic crises, security and counter-terrorism concerns, and human rights, particularly education for girls and women."

Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP on Saturday that the Taliban hoped that the talks will help "transform the atmosphere of war... into a peaceful situation".

No country has yet recognized the Taliban government, and Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt has stated that the talks will "not represent a legitimization or recognition of the Taliban."

"But we must talk to the de facto authorities in the country. We cannot allow the political situation to lead to an even worse humanitarian disaster," Huitfeldt added.