Fifteen European Union countries convened in Brussels to negotiate the deportation of Afghan nationals, focusing on those with criminal backgrounds. The discussions also hinted at the potential return of non-criminal Afghans amid rising concerns over security.

On June 23, representatives from fifteen EU member states met with Taliban officials in Brussels to address the complex issue of deporting Afghan nationals. The meeting was co-chaired by Sweden, with Belgium and the Netherlands among the participating nations. The European Commission emphasized that the primary focus of the discussions was on individuals with criminal records who pose a security risk.

The talks covered various logistical aspects, including the identification of returnees, the issuance of necessary travel documents, and the procedures for their repatriation. However, Johannes Luchner, a senior official from the EU Commission, indicated that the scope of the discussions might extend beyond criminals to include non-criminal Afghans who have been ordered to return.

An EU source revealed that the agenda could also encompass the return of failed asylum seekers, reflecting a growing concern within the bloc regarding the increasing number of Afghans facing deportation. Despite the significance of the meeting, the European Commission refrained from disclosing specific details, including the financial arrangements for the Taliban’s participation, the venue of the discussions, and whether women were included in the talks.