Kabulov, a diplomat, said that inclusivity and human rights are needed to recognize the Taliban
Zamir Kabulov. Photo: Press Service of the Russian Foreign Ministry/ RIA Novosti
The Special Representative of the President of Russia for Afghanistan, Director of the second Asia Department of the Foreign Ministry Zamir Kabulov, in an interview with RBC, called the conditions for recognizing the Taliban government (a terrorist organization is banned in the Russian Federation). He pointed out that this requires ethno-political inclusiveness of the authorities and respect for human rights.
The diplomat explained that there are representatives of other ethnic groups in the government, but they are all members of the Taliban movement. As for the second requirement, it is primarily about women, their right to work and other ordinary civil rights.
Kabulov added that Moscow does not impose its own ideas on Afghanistan and is aware that the country has its own cultural and religious traditions. At the same time, the experience of other Muslim countries can be taken as an example.
“We expect this. When there is not just progress on this issue, but progress, then the conditions will mature for the official recognition of the new Afghan authorities,” the Special representative stressed.
The diplomat noted that Russia will convince the Taliban of the need to create an inclusive government. In addition, the next steps will dictate to them the realities of life and common sense. If the Taliban wants to remain in power seriously and for a long time, they will have to manage the country in the absence of material resources and humanitarian aid, restore all spheres of life, Kabulov added.
He noted a small progress in the issue of human rights, but stressed that progress is still taking place. The Special Representative generally agreed with the UN assessment of the situation in Afghanistan, but considered it somewhat embellished. The organization noted the dramatic humanitarian situation, rising unemployment and dependence on aid. He said that in fact the situation is even worse.
Earlier, Kabulov noted the incompetence of the Taliban in governing the country. According to him, the Taliban governs Afghanistan “incompetently, or simply put, badly” due to a shortage of personnel. The diplomat added that the members of the radical group “have definitely changed ideologically and politically.” He stressed the need for Afghan specialists to return to their work.
