German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has dismissed claims that his government is moving to normalize relations with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), stressing that any engagement is limited to technical cooperation and serves Germany’s national interests.

Speaking during a question-and-answer session in the Bundestag on Wednesday, Merz said Germany is not seeking closer political ties with the IEA.

“We are not normalizing this regime,” he said, responding to criticism from the Green Party. Merz noted that diplomatic relations exist between states rather than governments and emphasized that Germany has maintained diplomatic relations with Afghanistan.

“We are not extending a hand to this Taliban (IEA) regime; Rather, cooperation is being sought at the necessary technical level that serves the national interest of our country,” Merz said.

According to Merz, the German government is engaging with IEA representatives at the lowest possible technical level to facilitate the deportation of Afghan nationals convicted of crimes in Germany.

The chancellor also voiced strong support for Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, who is holding discussions with officials in Kabul regarding the repatriation process.

“He has my full and unreserved support for what he is doing there,” Merz said.

Meanwhile, Germany’s Foreign Office confirmed earlier this week that up to four additional Afghan diplomats from the IEA could be allowed to work in Germany to help process deportations and consular services.

Officials said the additional consular staff would be needed to issue travel documents and passports, adding that all visa applications would undergo careful security screening before approval.