The Republic of Azerbaijan has extended its congratulations to the people of Afghanistan on the 106th anniversary of the country’s independence from British rule. This marks a notable departure from Baku’s silence during the Taliban’s self-declared “Day of Liberation” on August 14, commemorating the fall of Kabul in 2021.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry shared an image of Kabul on its official X account, writing: “On the occasion of Independence Day, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the people of Afghanistan. Happy National Day.”
On August 14, the Taliban celebrated the fourth anniversary of their return to power, a day they have framed as the “end of occupation” and Afghanistan’s “true independence.” However, no foreign government—including Russia, which officially recognizes the Taliban—issued congratulatory messages on that occasion.
In contrast, several countries, including Ireland, France, Germany, and Australia, marked the same date by issuing statements condemning the Taliban’s ongoing human rights violations.
