New Delhi, May 14 -- What is being described as "technical" contacts between the European Union and Afghanistan can evolve into a broader political dialogue, but that depends on several factors including political and legal constraints.

Right now, most EU engagement with Afghanistan is limited and pragmatic. Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, the EU has avoided formal diplomatic recognition of the Taliban while still maintaining channels for humanitarian aid, migration coordination, counterterrorism, human rights discussions etc.

Anti-Taliban sentiment runs so deep in the European mindset that any contact with the Taliban is met with contempt and disbelief.

These sentiments surfaced after the European Commission, the EU's exe...