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Top Russian official says it’s time to consider resuming SCO-Afghanistan relations
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu says it is time consider resuming relations between the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Afghanistan, noting that most SCO member states support the move.
In an article for Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Shoigu wrote that Russia and Afghanistan’s neighbors agree on the importance of restoring the country as a stable, independent, and drug- and terror-free state. He proposed starting with the relaunch of a dedicated SCO contact group for Afghanistan.
Shoigu also recalled that on July 3, 2025, Russia became the first country to officially recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), aiming to boost cooperation in trade, economics, humanitarian aid, and regional security, including the fight against terrorism and narcotics.
He said these issues were discussed during his visit to Kabul in November 2024, where Afghan leaders showed a clear desire for constructive political dialogue with Moscow and explored potential areas of economic collaboration.
According to Shoigu, Kabul understands the need to ensure the safety of investors and economic players as a foundation for growth. He noted that more regional states are deepening ties with Afghanistan, reflecting the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Shoigu claimed that over 23,000 militants affiliated with about 20 international terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan, posing a serious threat to the region and the world—an assertion previously rejected by the Islamic Emirate.
He noted that despite Western sanctions, the Islamic Emirate is combating terrorist groups, particularly the ISKP, to the best of its ability.
Shoigu also accused Western intelligence agencies of facilitating the transfer of fighters from other regions to Afghanistan to destabilize the area near the borders of Russia, China, and Iran through extremist groups opposing the Emirate.
He added that despite official claims of non-recognition, Western countries are working to re-establish NATO’s presence in the region and have increased political contacts with Kabul.