Russia becomes first state to recognise Afghan Taliban rule

Afghanistan's government said that Russia had become the first country to officially recognise its rule, calling it a “brave decision.”

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In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow saw good prospects to develop ties and would continue to support Kabul in security, counter-terrorism and combating drug crime. It also saw significant trade and economic opportunities, especially in energy, transport, agriculture and infrastructure. “We believe that the act of official recognition of the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will give impetus to the development of productive bilateral cooperation between our countries in various fields,” the ministry said.

The Russian foreign ministry also announced that it had received credentials from Afghanistan's newly appointed Ambassador Gul Hassan Hassan.

Afghanistan’s foreign ministry called it a historic step, and quoted Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi as welcoming the decision as “a good example for other countries.”

The Taliban swept back to power in 2021 after ousting the foreign-backed government and have imposed an austere version of Islamic law.