Taliban has sent a letter to Moscow requesting an invitation to the upcoming BRICS summit in Russia, according to Russian state media.
The letter, reportedly seen by the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, states that Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban’s deputy prime minister, is eager to attend the meeting, which is scheduled to take place in October in the Russian city of Kazan.
No country or international organization has officially recognized the Taliban since it regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, and it has faced repeated criticism over human rights abuses, particularly its treatment of women, and its handling of extremist groups within the country.
According to RIA Novosti, the Taliban’s letter to Russian officials said: “We are victims of a smear campaign by some media outlets. It is important that we participate in such forums to present our views on the issues being discussed. This is essential for global peace, mutual understanding, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence.”
The Taliban’s appeal for peaceful coexistence comes amid widespread international condemnation of its policies in Afghanistan, where it has stripped citizens—particularly women—of many rights and freedoms, including the right to work and participate in public life.
Despite repeated accusations of monopolizing power, the Taliban has maintained that its government is inclusive and does not require a broader coalition.
The Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 under the shadow of United Nations sanctions for terrorist activities. Under these sanctions, Taliban officials are barred from traveling abroad, making their participation in international forums highly restricted.
The letter to Moscow was reportedly sent by Suhail Shaheen, the head of the Taliban’s political office in Qatar.
