The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has responded to the 2026 Global Terrorism Index report, emphasizing what it described as a significant reduction in insecurity and continued progress toward nationwide stability.

In a statement, the authorities said Afghanistan is currently on a path toward consolidating lasting security, attributing the decline in violence to effective leadership and the efforts of security forces.

The statement noted that improved security conditions have created opportunities for economic growth, investment, and the implementation of major national and international infrastructure projects. Officials added that plans are underway to strengthen a secure investment environment, expand transit networks, and support the private sector.

The Islamic Emirate also stressed its commitment to fulfilling regional security responsibilities and maintaining long-term stability, vowing to preserve and further strengthen recent gains.

According to the 2026 Global Terrorism Index, Afghanistan ranks 11th among countries most affected by terrorism, compared to its previous position of ninth. Pakistan was ranked as the country most impacted by terrorism in the latest report.

Officials reiterated that sustained security improvements remain a top priority as the country seeks to build a more stable and economically viable future.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met with representatives of countries that participated in a traditional wrestling festival in Kabul.

During the meeting, Muttaqi described cultural ties between Afghanistan and the region as historic, stressing that such shared traditions can serve as a foundation for stronger engagement. He said Kabul is seeking to expand and deepen its international relations through sports diplomacy.

The foreign minister highlighted ongoing efforts to facilitate visas and provide necessary support for athletes, noting that steps are being taken to ease participation in international sporting events.

He also said that since the return of the Islamic Emirate, notable progress has been made in promoting traditional sports across the country.

Representatives from participating countries praised the organization of the festival and the management of the event, as well as the standard of traditional wrestling in Afghanistan. They also expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation and joint initiatives in the field of sports.

The international traditional wrestling festival, hosted by Afghanistan, began last Thursday in Kabul, bringing together athletes from seven countries. Around 60 foreign and 100 Afghan athletes competed in the event.

Foreign participants included representatives from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Turkey, highlighting regional engagement through sport.

Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS) has invited Russian companies to invest in and support the development of Afghanistan’s electricity sector, following talks in Russia.

According to the state power utility, its leadership delegation met with several major Russian firms specializing in power generation and technical services. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation, attracting investment, and launching joint energy projects.

During the meetings, Russian companies were encouraged to visit Afghanistan, explore investment opportunities, and engage in technical consultations. Initial understandings were reached on collaboration in key areas such as power grid development, technical training, and broader energy infrastructure.

Russian firms have expressed readiness to participate in these initiatives, with agreements seen as a step toward long-term cooperation in the electricity sector.

In the near future, technical teams from Russian companies are expected to travel to Afghanistan to begin assessments and coordinate with local experts. Officials say these efforts will lay the groundwork for implementing joint electricity projects.

Authorities believe the cooperation could play a significant role in improving power supply, boosting domestic electricity generation, and strengthening Afghanistan’s national grid.