The Russian government, under Vladimir Putin’s leadership, plans to remove the Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organizations, as reported by the state-run news agency RIA Novosti.
The change occurred three years following the Taliban’s resurgence to power in Afghanistan, a country ravaged by war.
Despite international sanctions against the Taliban, Russia has strengthened its relations with the government led by the banned group in Afghanistan. Moscow has conducted numerous rounds of talks and increased trade with Kabul as well.
Moscow has also invited Taliban representatives to its flagship Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, once considered a cornerstone of Russia’s economic relations with the West, according to state media.
The economic event, organized by Russia, is scheduled for June 5-8. Kabulov also mentioned that Afghan leaders have traditionally shown interest in purchasing oil products, as per TASS.
The Taliban is a militant group that originated in Afghanistan in the early 1990s. They gained control over most of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, enforcing a strict interpretation of Sharia law.
After the U.S.-led invasion in 2001, they were removed from power but continued to engage in insurgency. In recent years, they have regained significant territory and influence in Afghanistan.