UAE – Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan: Balancing between Step-By-Step Engagement and Containment

The policy of the United Arab Emirates towards the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan shows that Abu Dhabi, being an active geopolitical player in the Middle East, is increasingly involved in political and economic relations with states located beyond the region’s borders. Moreover, the United Arab Emirates is positioning itself as an important player in both regional and global issues. Abu Dhabi uses Kabul’s dependence on international financial aid to influence certain aspects of domestic policy of the new Afghan authorities, without turning the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan into a pariah. The UAE positions itself as a mediator for political interaction between South Asian states and the Afghan ruling circles. The UAE’s ambitious plans in the region are a way to enhance its prestige and increase its influence in the international arena. Obviously, when it comes to thwarting efforts to create safe havens for terrorist groups in the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, preventing drug smuggling and escalation of regional tensions, Abu Dhabi will adhere to the Gulf countries’ common approach to Kabul. The UAE’s Afghan policy continues to balance between pragmatic step-by-step interaction, containment, and condemnation of the radical behavior of the leadership of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The desire to achieve international recognition, diversify bilateral relations with various states, and receive financial assistance and investments stimulate Kabul to develop interaction with the UAE. Kabul hopes that strong bilateral ties with the UAE will bring political and economic dividends. The international activities of the Taliban provide them with an additional opportunity to increase their authority within the country, strengthening the legitimacy of the regime.