Dmitry Zhirnov, Russia’s Ambassador to Afghanistan, has stated that the Taliban cannot fully integrate into regional and global economic relations without Moscow’s assistance.
Zhirnov emphasised that Afghanistan needs economic development and expanded foreign trade, and that the Taliban recognise Russia’s support as a crucial factor in achieving these goals.
According to Zhirnov, the Taliban view Russia as a key economic partner.
Earlier, Agroexport, a subsidiary of Russia’s Ministry of Agriculture, announced that Afghanistan was the largest importer of Russian flour in 2024. The data revealed that Afghanistan imported $80 million worth of Russian flour, double the amount from 2023.
The Russian ambassador also noted that Afghanistan exports chromite, rubies, and emeralds to Russia, though he did not specify the volume of these exports.
Zhirnov highlighted Russia’s effective relations with the Taliban, stating in an interview with RIA Novosti that Moscow and Kabul have significantly intensified their contacts, with negotiations progressing effectively.
Referring to recent visits by Russian officials to Kabul and Taliban representatives to Moscow, he described the discussions as constructive and ongoing.
Earlier, Zamir Kabulov, the Russian President’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, announced that Moscow aims to establish a Russia-Taliban bilateral working group in spring 2025.
Kabulov explained that, since the Taliban have not yet been officially recognised, this working group will replace the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, serving as a temporary platform for bilateral economic engagement.
