Taliban say counter-narcotics cooperation discussed at Doha working group meeting

Taliban said on Wednesday that the working group meeting, held under the UN-led Doha Process, focused on joint efforts to combat drug trafficking, promote alternative livelihoods, and expand addiction treatment and rehabilitation services.

A spokesperson for the Taliban’s Ministry of Interior said the meeting, which concluded Tuesday, included “comprehensive discussions to strengthen coordination, share experiences, and pursue joint initiatives among countries.” According to the Taliban, representatives from 29 nations participated, along with delegates from the ministry’s counter-narcotics department.

The meeting was the third session of the technical working group on narcotics under the Doha Process, which seeks to facilitate structured dialogue between the Taliban and the international community.

A second working group on private sector development was held in parallel, though Taliban officials have yet to comment publicly on its content or outcomes.

The meetings have drawn criticism from human rights advocates and members of Afghan civil society, who argue that such discussions fail to address the country’s core humanitarian and rights crises, particularly those affecting women and marginalized groups.