PESHAWAR: In an exclusive interview, Russia’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, stated that Moscow shares the concerns of Pakistan and China regarding the rise of terrorism in the region. He emphasized that the elimination of groups like the TTP (Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan) and ETIM (East Turkistan Islamic Movement) is crucial for regional peace, asserting that Russia’s policy toward Afghanistan aligns closely with those of Islamabad and Beijing.
A United Front Against Militancy
Kabulov told The Express Tribune that while Daesh or IS-KP is the most dangerous international terrorist group, other outfits pose a serious threat to the region. He acknowledged that Pakistan and China have repeatedly raised concerns about the TTP and ETIM with the Afghan Taliban government. While Kabul has officially denied the presence of these groups, Russia believes that these “irritating issues” should be resolved bilaterally to avoid harming diplomatic ties.
Citing a statement from Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, Kabulov noted with alarm that there are an estimated 23,000 foreign terrorists on Afghan soil. He stressed the importance of assisting the Afghan government in curbing this menace to ensure the security of neighboring countries.
Recognition and Regional Benefits
The Russian envoy explained that Moscow’s decision to recognize the Afghan Taliban government was based on multiple factors, including political, economic, and security considerations. He believes that a stronger Kabul regime would be better equipped to eliminate terrorism. He also noted that Russia wants to protect its investments in Afghanistan and that a secure environment is essential for this.
Kabulov acknowledged that full recognition of the Afghan government is a difficult decision for the international community, citing reservations from countries including Pakistan, China, and Iran. He observed that both Pakistan and China have taken steps toward de facto recognition Pakistan by elevating the status of the Afghan envoy to ambassador and China by accepting the diplomatic credentials of their ambassador.
While Russia supports the trilateral process between Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan, Kabulov clarified that Moscow does not currently plan to join it, as its own diplomatic engagement through the “Moscow format” is already aligned with the interests of these countries. He expressed confidence that establishing stronger economic and political ties with Afghanistan will ultimately diminish terrorist threats.
Kabulov also expressed support for Chinese projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting that they will help develop the economies of both Pakistan and Afghanistan. He believes that Afghanistan’s strategic location makes it a crucial bridge for CPEC, connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and Eurasian nations. The Russian envoy concluded by expressing his condolences to the people of Afghanistan for the lives lost in the recent earthquake.
