In an unusual step to strengthen relations with the diplomatically isolated Taliban regime, Nicaragua has chosen an ambassador to Afghanistan, according to local media.
Currently serving as Nicaragua’s ambassador to China, Michael Campbell will assume the extra responsibility from his Beijing office.
“We thank the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, that people, that government, for the blessing they have given to our comrade Michael Campbell,” Nicaraguan Vice President Rosario Murillo said Friday, according to the pro-government news outlet El 19 Digital.
No country has legally recognized Taliban officials since they retook power in 2021.
In its proclamation, the Nicaraguan government made no mention of recognizing the administration of the Taliban.
China does not recognize the Taliban and maintains an ambassadorship in Afghanistan.
Washington does not have a formal ambassador; instead, the top diplomat representing the United States is known as a charge d’affaires.
The Taliban impose a strict interpretation of Islam, which results in the UN referring to the restriction of women’s rights as “gender apartheid.”
Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, in office since 2007, has governed via increasingly authoritarian practices, quashing presidential term limits and seizing control of all branches of the state.
*
Email *
Website
