European Union Special Envoy for Afghanistan Tomas Niklasson says his mission in the country has come to an end, but the bloc remains committed to supporting the Afghan people.
In a post on X, Niklasson wrote: “On March 1, I completed my assignment as EU special envoy for Afghanistan. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served in this role during a critical time.
“I thank the Afghans I met, my counterparts, and colleagues for their support, cooperation, friendship and, when necessary, their criticism.”
The diplomat emphasised that his departure did not indicate any change in the EU’s policy towards Afghanistan.
According to him, the EU continues to maintain its presence in the country, remains committed to the Afghan people while upholding EU interests and values, and engages with Afghanistan and international partners based on the Council Conclusions.
He added that until further notice, the responsibilities of the EU special envoy would be carried out by Deren Derya, head of the Division for Afghanistan and Pakistan at the European External Action Service (EEAS).
