Serbia Criticized Over Alleged Taliban Celebration Attendance

Serbia is facing sharp criticism from its opposition after reports surfaced that it was the sole European nation represented at a Taliban celebration in New Delhi. The event, held on August 17, marked the fifth anniversary of the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.

Afghan embassy officials in New Delhi organized the reception, which was attended by diplomats from several countries, including India, Palestine, Russia, China, Eritrea, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Niger, and Qatar. According to reports from Ariana News and Nova.rs, a Serbian diplomatic delegation was present, though the specific individual and their rank have not been confirmed. No photographic or material evidence has emerged to support the claim.

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The authorities are showing their true foreign policy role models with this move.

Both the Serbian Embassy in New Delhi and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have yet to officially confirm or deny the reports. Nova.rs stated that inquiries sent to both institutions have gone unanswered.

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A disgrace that pushes Serbia toward isolation.

Opposition leaders have reacted strongly to the news. Borko Stefanović, deputy leader of the Party of Freedom and Justice, described the alleged participation as a "disgrace" that isolates Serbia and reflects the government's "true foreign policy role models." Zdravko Ponoš, leader of the Srbija Centar party, shared the information on social media, questioning Belgrade's official rhetoric about aligning its foreign policy with the European Union.

During the New Delhi event, Afghanistan's Chargé d'Affaires in India, Noor Ahmad Noor, emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between Kabul and New Delhi. He highlighted Afghanistan's foreign policy principles of non-interference and balanced relations, and noted historical connections between the two nations. Noor also urged India to increase support for Afghanistan's interests in international forums, stating that Afghanistan's stability is crucial for regional economic development, trade, energy, and security.

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We are continuing our struggle with determination against organized structures that disrupt the peace of our cities, threaten the security of our citizens and guests visiting our country, and turn violence and crime into a source of profit.