Russia and Afghanistan cooperation surge after Taliban removed from blacklist
According to the international economics desk of Webangah News Agency, citing Tasnim News Agency and TASS, Jamal Nasir Gharwal, Afghanistan’s Chargé d’Affaires in Moscow, announced that Russia’s decision to suspend the ban on Taliban activities has greatly enhanced trade and economic relations between the two nations.
Speaking at the 16th International economic forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum,” he said: “Our trade and economic cooperation was not very accomplished as the Taliban was on Russia’s blacklist.”
Gharwal added: “Fortunately, after the decision of Russia’s Supreme Court, this issue was resolved. The decision has created better conditions for expanding cooperation.”
The Afghan diplomat expressed hope that investment agreements between Russia and Afghanistan in geological exploration and mineral extraction would soon be signed.
Earlier, Russia’s Supreme Court had approved a request from the Prosecutor General’s Office to suspend the ban on Taliban activities in Russia.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that removing the “terrorist” label from the Taliban paves the way for full partnership with Kabul,benefiting both Russian and afghan peopel.
The 16th International Economic Forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” is being held in Kazan from May 13 to 18. The main theme of this summit is “Digitalization: A New Reality and Added Opportunities for Expanding Cooperation.” Representatives from over 100 countries are attending.
Suhail Shaheen, Deputy Prime Minister of Afghanistan, also remarked on sidelines of forum saying “Russia is a large promising market for Afghan goods & Kabul aims increase trade w/ Moscow” . He further emphasized:”We believe Russias market holds great potential our products & seek boost bilateral exchanges both imports exports”.
He invited companies investors private sector players assuring them all necessary security legal frameworks were place adding:”We will support Russian investors businesses”.
Additionally stressed importance creating favorable conditions transit trade noting Afghanistan seeks become regional hub while developing required infrastructure achieve goal . According him country actively seeking markets its manufactured goods where Russias stands out as prime exmaple.
