Taliban Invited by Russia to Major Economic Forum

Since the Taliban took control in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led forces after 20 years, Moscow has been gradually strengthening its ties with the Taliban, even though the group remains officially banned in Russia.

Zamir Kabulov, an official at the Russian foreign ministry, told state news agency TASS that the foreign and justice ministries have reported to President Vladimir Putin regarding the issue of lifting the ban.

Kabulov mentioned that some questions remain, but confirmed that an invitation to attend the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum from June 5-8 had been extended to the Taliban.

Russia formally designated the Taliban as a terrorist organization in 2003, although it maintained periodic informal contacts with the group.

Kabulov noted that Afghan leaders have traditionally been interested in purchasing oil products.

The St. Petersburg forum, which once hosted CEOs and investment bankers from London and New York, has changed significantly due to the Ukraine war, which has caused the most significant crisis in Russia’s relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Western investors seeking a share of Russia’s vast resources have now been replaced by businesses from China, India, Africa, and the Middle East.

Other Questions Asked

What is the relationship between Russia and Afghanistan?

The Russian-backed Afghan government collapsed in 1992. However, Russo-Afghan relations have somewhat improved in the years following the conflict. Russia now maintains an embassy in Kabul and a consulate-general in Mazar-e-Sharif, while Afghanistan has an embassy in Moscow.

Does Russia recognize the Taliban?

Russia has not recognized the Islamic Emirate as the lawful authority of Afghanistan. Moscow has said that it hopes to develop ties with the Taliban, although it also says that it is in no rush to recognize them as the country’s rulers.

Who did Russia support in Afghanistan?

The war began after the Soviets, under the command of Leonid Brezhnev, launched an invasion of Afghanistan to support the local pro-Soviet government that had been installed during Operation Storm-333.

Why was Russia involved in Afghanistan?

The Brezhnev Doctrine severely limited reforms by Soviet-bloc countries in the ensuing decades. In addition, it was used to justify the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. The Soviets sought to prop up the country’s communist government in its battle with anticommunist Muslim guerrillas.

When did Russia fight the Taliban?