The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan is hoping to establish a new relationship with the incoming Trump administration. They are emphasizing the importance of accessing over $9 billion in foreign exchange reserves that have been frozen since 2020.

Mohammad Suhail Shaheen, head of the Taliban’s political office in Qatar, expressed a desire for the U.S. to reciprocate this initiative. He highlighted the need for the unfreezing and return of the reserves held by Da Afghanistan Bank, the country’s central bank.

The Taliban's request indicates a potential change in engagement with the U.S. under the new administration, as they aim to improve diplomatic ties and economic conditions in Afghanistan, which have been severely affected by financial restrictions.