When it comes to diplomatic relations, embassies play a crucial role in facilitating communication and cooperation between countries. The United States, being a global superpower, has a vast network of embassies around the world. However, there are a few countries where the U.S. does not have an embassy.
Which countries do not have an American embassy?
In this article, we will explore the countries that do not have an American embassy and the alternative arrangements that exist.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan, a country located in Central Asia, does not have an American embassy. Due to the ongoing security situation and political instability, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul was closed in 2021.
However, the United States maintains an “interests section” within the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Kabul, which provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens residing or visiting Afghanistan.
Bhutan
Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas, does not have an American embassy. The United States does not maintain a diplomatic presence in Bhutan. ‘
However, the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India, is responsible for handling diplomatic relations with Bhutan. The embassy provides consular services to Bhutanese citizens and supports bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
Iran
Iran, a country in the Middle East, does not have an American embassy. The U.S. Embassy in Tehran was closed in 1980 following the Iran hostage crisis.
However, the United States maintains an “interests section” within the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran, which serves as a channel of communication between the two countries. The interests section provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens in Iran.
Syria
Syria, a country in the Middle East, does not have an American embassy. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus was closed in 2012 due to the ongoing civil war.
However, the United States maintains an “interests section” within the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Damascus, which provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria. The interests section also serves as a channel of communication between the U.S. and Syria.
North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), commonly known as North Korea, does not have an American embassy. The United States does not maintain diplomatic relations with North Korea.
Instead, the Swedish Embassy in Pyongyang acts as the protecting power for U.S. citizens in North Korea. The Swedish Embassy provides consular services and assists with communication between the U.S. and North Korea.
Yemen
Yemen, a country located in the Arabian Peninsula, does not have an American embassy. The U.S. Embassy in Sana’a was closed in 2015 due to the deteriorating security situation.
However, the United States maintains an “interests section” within the Embassy of Switzerland in Sana’a, which provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens in Yemen. The interests section also serves as a channel of communication between the U.S. and Yemen.
Taiwan
Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, does not have an American embassy due to the “One China” policy. However, the United States maintains a de facto embassy called the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT).
The AIT serves as the unofficial diplomatic presence of the United States in Taiwan, handling consular services, promoting bilateral relations, and facilitating cultural and economic exchanges.
In conclusion, while the United States strives to maintain diplomatic relations with all countries, the absence of an American embassy in these countries does not indicate a lack of engagement.
The alternative arrangements, such as “interests sections” and de facto embassies, ensure that diplomatic communication and consular services are still provided to U.S. citizens and facilitate cooperation between the United States and these nations.
Article updated 4 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
