Russia's Lavrov Calls for Kabul's Inclusion in Regional Affairs

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that Afghanistan's interim administration must be integrated into the region's political dialogues and economic projects to ensure stability. He made these remarks during the seventh round of Moscow format consultations, a platform involving Afghan and regional representatives to discuss the future of Afghanistan.

A Shift in Engagement and Regional Security

Lavrov confirmed that Russia has officially lifted restrictions on cooperation with Kabul after recognizing the Taliban-led government in July. He credited the administration with effectively combating terrorist groups despite facing significant external pressure and financial constraints. A key point of Russia's position, Lavrov emphasized, is its firm rejection of the deployment of military infrastructure from third-party nations in Afghanistan or surrounding countries under any pretext, arguing such a presence risks new conflicts.

Humanitarian Crisis and Calls for Western Responsibility

The Russian diplomat highlighted the severe humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, noting that over 22 million people require assistance, with millions lacking clean water and basic healthcare. He called on external donors to provide aid without attaching political strings. Furthermore, Lavrov urged Western nations to "correct their confrontational course" and assume responsibility for the post-conflict reconstruction of Afghanistan, compensating for decades of damage to its economy and infrastructure.

Broad Regional Consensus Against Foreign Bases

The Moscow format meeting occurs amidst a broader regional consensus. Late last month, a coalition including China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan collectively opposed any move to reestablish foreign military bases in Afghanistan. This stance was articulated following reports that the US had sought to regain control of Bagram Air Base, underscoring a shared regional desire to prevent a return of extra-regional military forces after the withdrawal of US-led troops in 2021.