Moscow, Tashkent Seek Stability in Afghanistan, Say Russian & Uzbek Presidents

Kremlin in a statement said that Russian and Uzbek presidents have emphasised on their commitment towards efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The statement was issued after a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Moscow.

Mirziyoyev arrived in Moscow on October 5. He met Vladimir Putin on Friday.

The joint statement read, "Priority will be given to achieving peace and stability in Afghanistan, which fully supports the security and development interests of Central Asia and its neighbours."

Russia and Uzbekistan, like other countries, do not recognise the Taliban.

Moscow and Tashkent have repeatedly asked the Taliban to fight against terrorists, form an inclusive government, and respect the rights of minorities, and international laws.

In the last two years, ISIS-K launched several rocket attacks on Uzbekistan from Afghanistan soil. Also, in a suicide attack conducted by ISIS, two Russian diplomats were killed on September 5, 2022.

Putin and Mirziyoyev have emphasised that the United Nations should play the main coordinating role in improving the situation in Afghanistan.

The statement also said that Russia and Uzbekistan condemn any discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or religion in any form.

Putin and Mirziyoyev have said that in accordance with international laws and obligations, they will take effective measures to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms and combat racism and racial discrimination.

Respecting ethnic groups and religions as well as preventing the proliferation of extremist ideologies are among the key priorities emphasised by the leaders of Russia and Uzbekistan.