A Taliban delegation held initial talks with European Union officials in Brussels regarding the return of Afghan asylum seekers whose applications have been denied. This marks the first official meeting between the Taliban and the EU since the group took power in Afghanistan. The discussions centered on practicalities of facilitating returns, including documentation and logistical arrangements. The meeting has sparked significant controversy and condemnation from various quarters, with critics expressing concerns about the human rights situation in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. EU officials emphasized that the talks do not signify recognition of the Taliban government. The EU maintains its commitment to providing humanitarian aid to Afghanistan but insists on upholding human rights standards. The outcome of the discussions and any concrete agreements reached remain unclear.