Turkey Ends Visa-Free Entry for Afghan Diplomats
Türkiye has announced the termination of its diplomatic visa exemption agreement with Afghanistan. This move, set to take effect on June 1, will end the mutual visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic passports between the two nations. Let's explore the reasons behind this decision and its broader implications.
Termination of Diplomatic Visa Agreement
Details of the Cancellation
The agreement exempting diplomatic travellers from visa requirements, which was signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on May 28, will be terminated on June 1. The agreement had been in effect since January 8, 2008. This agreement previously allowed holders of diplomatic passports from both Türkiye and Afghanistan to travel between the countries without needing a visa.
Reason Behind the Decision
The decision to cancel the agreement comes after a visit by Turkish migration officials to Afghanistan. During this visit, officials discussed the issue of irregular Afghan migration to Türkiye and the deportation of undocumented migrants back to Afghanistan. This move aims to address the significant migration challenges faced by Türkiye, which serves as a primary migration route for Afghan refugees seeking to reach Europe.
Impact on Diplomatic Relations
Effect on Diplomatic Passport Holders
The suspension affects all Republic VIPs based in Doha with diplomatic passports and Taliban leadership. Türkiye has not yet officially recognized the Taliban, although some Taliban officials have visited the country on official invitations.
Türkiye's Role in Afghan Migration
Türkiye's eastern border with Iran is a major crossing point for Afghan migrants. The country plays a significant role in managing the flow of Afghan refugees into Europe. The termination of the visa exemption agreement highlights Türkiye's efforts to control irregular migration and enhance border security.
Statistics on Irregular Afghan Migration
Increase in Detected Migrants
In May 2024 alone, Turkish authorities apprehended more than 27,000 irregular Afghan migrants. This figure is part of a larger trend of increasing Afghan migration, with Afghan nationals topping the list of intercepted irregular migrants.
Historical Context
In 2023, Türkiye recorded the highest rate of detention of undocumented migrants, with Afghan nationals leading the numbers. Over 68,677 Afghan migrants were detained, highlighting the ongoing challenge of managing irregular migration.
UN Data on Afghan Refugees
According to UN data, over 1.6 million Afghans have fled their country since August 2021, bringing the total number of Afghan refugees in neighbouring countries to 8.2 million. During this period, more than 300,000 Afghan refugees were living in Türkiye.
Humanitarian Efforts and Future Relations
Humanitarian Aid to Afghanistan
Despite the lack of formal relations, Türkiye has continued to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. Recently, Türkiye sent a train carrying aid to Afghan cities affected by devastating floods. Additionally, Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Kabul after a three-year hiatus.
Looking Ahead
The termination of the visa exemption agreement is a significant step in Türkiye's approach to managing Afghan migration. While this decision may impact diplomatic relations, it also underscores Türkiye's commitment to addressing migration challenges and enhancing border security.
Conclusion
Türkiye's decision to halt the diplomatic visa agreement with Afghanistan reflects its ongoing efforts to manage irregular migration and strengthen border control. As both nations navigate this change, the broader implications for diplomatic relations and migration policies will continue to unfold.
FAQs
- When will the diplomatic visa agreement between Türkiye and Afghanistan end?
The agreement will be terminated on June 1, following a decision signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
- What was the purpose of the diplomatic visa exemption agreement?
The agreement allowed holders of diplomatic passports from both Türkiye and Afghanistan to travel between the two countries without needing a visa.
- Why did Türkiye decide to cancel the visa agreement?
The decision was made to address the challenges of irregular Afghan migration to Türkiye and to enhance border security.
- How many Afghan migrants were apprehended in Türkiye in May 2024?
In May 2024 alone, Turkish authorities apprehended more than 27,000 irregular Afghan migrants.
- How has Türkiye supported Afghanistan despite the lack of formal relations?
Türkiye has continued to provide humanitarian aid, including sending aid trains to Afghan cities and resuming Turkish Airlines flights to Kabul.