Shoigu calls for closer cooperation with Kabul, warns of new drug trafficking threats in central Asia

Afghanistan’s security situation and its impact on regional stability were among the issues highlighted by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu during a meeting of security council secretaries from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

Shoigu stressed the importance of constructive cooperation with Kabul, saying that developments in Central Asia directly affect stability in Afghanistan. He said cooperation with Afghanistan is a shared priority in the fields of security, economic development and regional cooperation.

Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Shoigu also warned about emerging threats linked to drug trafficking, particularly the spread of synthetic drugs, describing them as a serious regional challenge.

He noted that drug trafficking networks are increasingly using contactless delivery methods and alternative payment systems, including cryptocurrencies, making coordinated efforts among countries essential.

Shoigu added that the meeting addressed drug trafficking within the CIS region, including the previous threat posed by opiates originating from Afghanistan.

He called for joint regional efforts to counter new forms of drug trafficking and strengthen security cooperation among member states.