Recognize the Taliban to fight terrorism and drugs

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, said Moscow had officially recognized the Taliban for its “joint fight against terrorism and drug trafficking” and strengthening economic ties.

Kabulov said Russia’s decision to recognize the Taliban was based on Afghanistan’s strategic importance and the group’s efforts to counter threats such as terrorism and drug trafficking.

“Afghanistan is of particular importance to us because there were serious concerns about terrorism and drug trafficking that previously originated from this country,” he said. “Now that the Taliban are making efforts to deal with these problems, it is essential to maintain close cooperation with the Afghan government.”

Kabulov also cited the expansion of economic relations between Russia and Afghanistan as another reason for the decision, adding: “We have started to establish economic cooperation with Afghanistan and for this cooperation to be legal and complete, it was necessary to recognize the government.”

He stressed that the move was based on several reasons, including the need to maintain engagement to counter common regional threats, and reflected Moscow’s commitment to strengthening relations with Kabul.

The Russian ambassador to Afghanistan said Moscow recognizes the Taliban government as the official government of Afghanistan.

Russia’s decision has sparked widespread reactions in domestic and international circles. Meanwhile, opposition groups, including the National Resistance Front, the Freedom Front, the Islamic Movement of Afghanistan and many former government officials, have condemned the move as a threat to internal legitimacy, lasting peace, and regional security.