Taliban Cancel Afghan Govt Inauguration Ceremony on 9/11 Anniversary

The Taliban have cancelled the inauguration ceremony of their newly formed interim government in Afghanistan after being pressurised against it by allies, Russia's TASS news agency reported.

According to unconfirmed reports, the inauguration ceremony was slated to be held on September 11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks.

Inamullah Samangani, a member of the Afghan government's cultural commission in a tweet said, "The inauguration ceremony of the new Afghan government was cancelled a few days ago. In order not to confuse people further, the leadership of the Islamic Emirate announced the part of the Cabinet, and it has already started to work."

Russia, Iran, China, Qatar and Pakistan have been invited by the Taliban to the inaugural ceremony. However, Moscow reportedly informed Qatar, the go-between for Western nations and the new Kabul government, that it would not participate in the inauguration event if it's held on the anniversary of 9/11.

Reports also stated that the US and its Nato allies were pressurising the Qatari government to advise the Taliban against holding an inauguration celebration altogether, as it would come off as "inhuman". The event may have further jeopardised the Taliban's prospects of global recognition for their fledgling regime in Afghanistan, something that the hardline group is keen on securing.

The Taliban on Tuesday announced an interim government in Afghanistan, including key ministerial figures. Despite their assurances of an inclusive government, the new cabinet is all-male and will govern as per the Taliban's harsh interpretation of Sharia Law.

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