Russia has pledged to support the Taliban in its efforts to combat the Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K) in Afghanistan, Moscow’s special representative for the country said on Friday.
Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s former ambassador to Afghanistan, called ISIS-K a “common enemy” for both Russia and the Taliban. “We appreciate the Taliban’s efforts in fighting ISIS,” Kabulov told RIA news agency. “We will provide our best assistance through specialized structures.”
Although no country recognizes the Taliban’s government, Russia took a significant step toward cooperation by removing the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations last month. Kabulov noted the growing ties between Russia and Kabul, highlighting the Taliban’s efforts to eliminate ISIS-K from Afghanistan.
The two countries are expanding their cooperation in various sectors, with Russia offering to accredit an Afghan ambassador in Moscow. Kabulov emphasized that the removal of the Taliban’s terrorist designation clears the way for broader collaboration, including trade and investment opportunities.
Russia also plans to discuss joint economic projects, such as mineral development and gas pipelines, at an upcoming business forum in Kazan later this month.