France has begun technical talks with the Taliban aimed at facilitating the deportation of Afghan nationals living illegally in the country who are considered a threat to public order, a French diplomatic source said on Wednesday.
The source told AFP that the move was considered necessary to help protect public security in France.
“Like other European countries, a technical dialogue has been opened with the Taliban to facilitate the direct removal to Afghanistan of Afghan nationals who are staying illegally and pose a threat to public order,” the source said.
France has not maintained diplomatic relations with the Taliban since the group returned to power in Afghanistan in August 2021.
The discussions mark a pragmatic shift in Paris’ approach as several European governments explore ways to resume or expand deportations to Afghanistan despite continuing concerns over the country’s political and human rights situation.
Germany has been among the first European countries to engage directly with Taliban authorities on arrangements for the return of Afghan nationals subject to deportation orders.
The talks do not amount to diplomatic recognition of the Taliban government, but are focused on the practical arrangements needed to carry out removals.
