A spokesperson announced that “The Commission and the EEAS are maintaining close communication with member states regarding this issue. Earlier this year, we initiated exploratory discussions at a technical level with the de facto authorities in Afghanistan. Our aim is to continue supporting the member states’ efforts.”
Last week, twenty countries urged European Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner in a letter to implement concrete measures to enhance the voluntary and forced return of Afghans lacking residence rights. They are advocating for increased European coordination and collaboration to boost the number of deportations, including a mission to Afghanistan.
In the past year, member states issued over 22,800 departure orders to Afghans, yet only 435 returned. Deportations to Afghanistan face additional challenges due to the absence of full diplomatic relations with Kabul, as the EU and member states do not officially recognize the Taliban regime.
Despite these obstacles, Germany dispatched a delegation to Kabul earlier this month to initiate discussions on regular deportations, starting with convicted criminals. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt indicated last week that negotiations are “advanced” and expressed a willingness to work with other member states.
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