Afghanistan Peace CampaignThe flag of the Islamic Emirate was raised over the Afghan embassy, an action that followed Russia’s official recognition of the Islamic Emirate nearly four years after its establishment. With this decision, Russia became the first country to officially recognize the Islamic Emirate.
The Kremlin announced that the decision was fundamentally made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, based on the recommendation of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
Russia’s ambassador to Kabul, Dmitry Zhirnov, stated: “This decision, fundamentally made by the President of Russia and based on the recommendation of the Foreign Minister, shows our genuine interest in a full partnership with Afghanistan. Over 100 years ago, Russia was the first country to recognize Afghanistan’s independence. All of this reflects our friendly relations with Afghanistan.”
The acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, praised the move and described it as an important step toward strengthening bilateral relations.
Russia is among the few countries that maintained an active embassy in Kabul following the fall of the former government.
In addition, the removal of Emirate officials’ names from sanctions lists and the acceptance of the Islamic Emirate’s proposed ambassador in Moscow are among the recent steps Russia has taken to expand its relations with the Emirate.
Islamic Emirate officials have repeatedly referred to China and Russia as their allies in the United Nations Security Council.
Political analyst Mohammad Aslam Danishmal stated: “To gain international legitimacy, the Islamic Emirate must fulfill its internal responsibilities. Based on that, the path will be paved. Just as Russia recognized the Emirate, other countries should follow suit.”
Most Western countries have so far refrained from recognizing the Islamic Emirate due to concerns over human rights, particularly the situation of women and girls.
Meanwhile, attention is now focused on the reactions of other countries and international institutions to determine whether Russia’s decision will initiate a new path toward global recognition of the caretaker government.