In response to criticism from some journalists about Russia’s contacts with the Islamic Emirate, the Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, emphasized the necessity of establishing relations with the current authorities in Afghanistan to prevent drug trafficking and fight terrorism.
Kabul 24: Zakharova stated that this cooperation is beneficial for Russia and that the removal of “Taliban” officials from the blacklist is also underway.
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Defends Contacts with Islamic Emirate
Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, defended Russia’s contacts with the Islamic Emirate, saying that those who criticize these contacts do not understand that solving problems such as fighting drug trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime requires contact, which is in Russia’s interest.
Islamic Emirate Welcomes Russia’s Positive Remarks
Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, praised the remarks of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman and expressed the Islamic Emirate’s desire to engage with all countries of the world. Mujahid emphasized that Afghanistan needs cooperation and positive contacts with countries, and the recent position of Russia is positive, which the Islamic Emirate appreciates.
Analysts Weigh In on Russia’s Approach to Afghanistan
Sayed Akbar Sial Wardak, a political analyst, highlighted the significance of Russia’s removal of the Islamic Emirate from the blacklist, stating that it is a big advantage for the Islamic Emirate. Mohammad Zalmai Afghanyar, another political analyst, expressed hope that a unified political consensus around relations with Afghanistan can be established so that Afghanistan can come out of isolation.
Russian President Emphasizes Importance of Interaction with Afghan Interim Government
In a press conference in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of Russia’s interaction with the interim government of Afghanistan, underscoring the need for cooperation to address regional challenges.
