Russia’s relationship with the Taliban has evolved since the group took control of Afghanistan in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led forces. Despite officially classifying the Taliban as a terrorist organization, Moscow has been cautiously building diplomatic ties with the group.
A Russian diplomat revealed on Monday that Moscow has invited the Taliban to its largest annual economic forum and is considering a proposal to remove the group from its terrorist list. Since the Taliban’s rise to power, Russia has been gradually fostering connections, although the Taliban remains outlawed in Russia.
According to Zamir Kabulov, an official at the Russian foreign ministry, both the foreign and justice ministries have briefed President Vladimir Putin on the possibility of lifting the ban on the Taliban. While some issues still need to be addressed, Kabulov noted that the Taliban had been invited to the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum scheduled for June 5-8.
Russia designated the Taliban as a terrorist organization in 2003 but maintained occasional informal contacts. Kabulov mentioned that Afghan leaders have traditionally shown interest in purchasing oil products from Russia.
The St. Petersburg forum, which used to attract CEOs and investment bankers from the West, has seen significant changes due to the Ukraine conflict. The forum now primarily hosts businesses from China, India, Africa, and the Middle East, reflecting the shift in Russia’s economic partnerships amid its strained relations with Western nations.
