Maldives Recalls Ambassador After Unauthorized Taliban Meeting

The Maldives has recalled its High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mohamed Thoha, following an unauthorized meeting with Taliban envoy Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb in Islamabad. This meeting, which sparked speculation about the Maldives' stance on the Taliban, was described by the Maldivian Foreign Ministry as 'not sanctioned' by the government. The Maldives maintains that it does not recognize the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, aligning with the United Nations' position. Despite the Taliban's diplomatic efforts, it has not gained official recognition from any country three years after its takeover. Criticism arose from former diplomats regarding the government's declaration of the meeting as unauthorized, suggesting it contradicts standard diplomatic practices. The incident reflects ongoing tensions regarding international relations with the Taliban amid persistent human rights concerns.