Russia Meets With Taliban Government and International Partners to Discuss Afghanistan's Future

An important meeting on the issue of Afghanistan was held in the Russian capital Moscow on Monday. Representatives of the Taliban government were joined by officials from several countries, including India, Pakistan, China, Iran. The meeting took place at a time when Russia is steadily advancing its relations with Kabul. Russia had given official recognition to the Taliban government in July 2025. In the meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov welcomed Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Lavrov praised the Taliban's work after taking power. He mentioned the Taliban's actions against Islamic State and other extremist organizations. In addition, he praised the efforts to curb the illegal drug trade. Lavrov congratulated Muttaqi on the fifth anniversary of the withdrawal of NATO troops from Afghanistan. He said that the five-year period is short, but the Taliban government's works are visible during this time. Russia also said to continue humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. Lavrov was clear about Russia's stance on Afghanistan. Lavrov said that Russia does not approve of any such military presence in or around Afghanistan.