Politics

Taliban say Russia has accepted their nominee for ambassador to Moscow

KABUL — Russia has formally accepted the Taliban’s nominee for ambassador to Moscow, according to a statement from the Taliban-run foreign ministry on Sunday.

The ministry said that Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov conveyed Moscow’s decision during a meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban’s acting foreign minister, in Kabul.

During the meeting, Zhirnov expressed support for stronger diplomatic ties and noted that closer relations could lead to expanded cooperation in various sectors.

The statement added that the two sides also discussed recent developments, including understandings reached during a multilateral meeting in Kazan and the activities of joint working committees.

According to the statement, Muttaqi described the current stage in relations as “important” and emphasized the Taliban’s interest in further engagement with Russia.

Taliban have maintained a diplomatic presence in Moscow since returning to power in 2021, though no country has so far recognized their administration.