Russia has chosen to remove the Taliban from the list of terrorist organizations, following in the footsteps of Kazakhstan.
For years, Russia has been fostering relations with the Taliban, engaging in talks and increasing trade with Afghanistan despite international sanctions.
Foreign Minister Lavrov stated, "Kazakhstan has recently taken the decision, which we are also going to take, to remove them from the list of terrorist organizations."
By the end of 2023, Kazakhstan had already removed the Taliban from its list of prohibited organizations. This move, however, does not signify an official recognition of the Taliban administration and the "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan," but it may serve to strengthen diplomatic relations between Russia and Afghanistan.
In 2021, the Taliban overthrew a government that was supported by the US, instating a strict interpretation of Islamic law that severely limits the participation of women in public life.
Lavrov explained that Russia's decision was made after considering the local circumstances. "They are the real power. We are not indifferent to Afghanistan, and above all, our allies in Central Asia are not indifferent," Lavrov stated.
Official media reported that Russia has invited Taliban delegates to attend its premier Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, an event that was once considered the cornerstone of Russia’s trade ties with the West.
It's worth noting that Russia has a long history of supporting relations with the Taliban. In 2018, the commander of US forces in Afghanistan accused Moscow of arming the group, which was refuted by Moscow at the time. Russia had classified the Taliban as a terrorist organization since 2003.
Furthermore, Russia has a complex history with Afghanistan. In the 1980s, it engaged in a decade-long war against guerrilla mujahideen militants to support a government backed by the Kremlin.
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