MOSCOW — Russia’s relationship with the Taliban, while not officially recognizing the group as Afghanistan’s government, is primarily centered on economic cooperation, according to Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s special envoy for Afghanistan.
In an interview with a Russian media outlet, Kabulov said that despite the lack of formal recognition, Russia maintains “friendly relations” with the Taliban. “Political relations with the Taliban continue, but there is a legal tradition and the need for official recognition. In my personal view, resolving this issue is not out of reach,” he stated.
Kabulov also noted that the Taliban has been the only effective force in combating terrorist groups, particularly ISIS, over the past two decades. He highlighted that during the U.S. and NATO presence in Afghanistan, ISIS forces numbered around 12,000, but that figure has now dropped to between 2,000 and 4,000.
He added that since taking power, the Taliban has distanced itself from the ideology of “global jihad,” shifting its focus to national objectives.
Kabulov concluded by stressing the mutual interest shared by Russia and the Taliban in counterterrorism efforts, indicating potential for further bilateral cooperation in this area.
