Minus a government and funds, Afghan Embassy in Delhi faces a bleak future

Expected more from India, says Ambassador about visas issued to Afghans

Four months after the collapse of the government in Afghanistan to Taliban forces, its Embassy in Delhi faces a bleak future with no financial assistance, and an unclear formal status. The embassy headed by Ambassador Farid Mamundzay, who was only posted to India earlier this year, now comprises a small staff of 20 Afghan diplomats, while the local Indian staff have had to be cut back on given budgetary constraints. While Mr. Mamundzay declined to speak on discussions with the Government of India for support, he admitted the embassy was disappointed by the small number of visas granted to Afghans in need by India, and hopes that more food and medical aid would be forthcoming after the first batch was sent by air last week.

“Running an embassy requires policy, administrative and financial support. At present, none of the 70 Afghan missions worldwide, with the possible exception of Beijing and Islamabad are receiving any support from Kabul,” Mr. Mamundzay told The Hindu, sitting at his office in Delhi’s diplomatic enclave, where ousted President Ashraf Ghani’s photograph still adorns the wall above his desk. When asked why, Mr. Mamundzay shrugged, adding that it is unclear whose photograph should replace it.

“At present, we represent the geographic landmass and people of Afghanistan…we represent a republic that is lost for the moment,” he said, in a reference to the Taliban’s decision to recast its interim regime as the “Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan”, with a Taliban flag. However, like most of the other 70 missions, the Delhi Embassy has retained the republic and its tricolour flag of black, red and green. According to the diplomat, until the Taliban forms a formal government that is inclusive, representative and keeps promises made, including on the rights of women and minorities, the embassy cannot represent it. “For now, we have lost a state, and the results are catastrophic”.