The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan stated that during a meeting in Kabul with Zalmay Khalilzad, UAE Ambassador Saif Al Ketbi, and a relative of U.S. prisoner Dennis Cole, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi confirmed that the Afghan government has approved the prisoner’s release.
Mr. Muttaqi noted that the decision followed a request and letter from the prisoner’s family, particularly his mother, submitted to the Afghan government leadership. The Supreme Court has confirmed that the detention period was sufficient.
He stressed that the Afghan government does not detain anyone for political reasons and that all cases are thoroughly reviewed in accordance with the law.
Mr. Muttaqi also expressed his gratitude for the support and cooperation of the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as well as the State of Qatar.
Meanwhile, Zalmay Khalilzad welcomed the decision as a positive step and stressed the importance of continuing dialogue between the two sides.
