Erdogan says Taliban lacking ‘inclusive, encompassing leadership’

Turkish president says Ankara is willing to work with Taliban if the armed group formed a more encompassing government.

The Taliban’s current approach and their interim government are not inclusive but Turkey is willing to work with them if the armed group formed a more encompassing government, President Tayyip Erdogan has said.

NATO member Turkey has been working with Qatar to operate Kabul airport for international travel after the Taliban took power and foreign countries withdrew from Afghanistan.

Turkey welcomed the Taliban’s initial messages but said it would evaluate its engagement and recognition of the group based on their actions.