Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, has revealed in an interview with the Russian newspaper Izvestia that Afghanistan is seeking full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Kabul 24: However, due to opposition from one of the member states, the country has not yet been able to join as a full member.Kabulov stated: “Of course, Afghanistan wants to become a full member of the Organization.
Officially, it is an observer country, but because of the objection of one member — and all decisions in the SCO are made by consensus — the process has not yet begun.”He added that other SCO member states are already in contact and cooperating with Afghanistan in various forms, expressing confidence that this issue will be resolved in the future.
Kabulov did not name the opposing country.According to Izvestia, citing its sources, Pakistan is the main opponent to expanding Afghanistan’s role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Islamabad’s opposition stems primarily from security concerns.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization, established in 2001 to promote mutual trust, security, economic, and political cooperation, currently includes China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Afghanistan has held observer status since 2012 and participates in various SCO activities, but full membership requires unanimous approval from all member states.Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, Russia and China have shown greater willingness to engage with Kabul and integrate Afghanistan into regional frameworks to ensure stability in Central Asia.
However, Pakistan’s security concerns — particularly regarding cross-border terrorism and the activities of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) — have remained the main obstacle.Kabulov struck an optimistic tone, saying he is certain the issue will be settled eventually.
Several SCO ministerial and expert-level meetings have already included Afghan representatives, indicating that most members are interested in deepening cooperation.
Analysts believe that Afghanistan’s full membership could bring significant benefits, including enhanced economic partnerships, joint counter-terrorism efforts, and better coordination against drug trafficking.
Nevertheless, until full consensus is reached, Afghanistan will continue to participate only as an observer.
