Afghanistan and Russia have signed a new military and technical cooperation agreement during the Moscow International Security Conference, marking an important step in the growing relationship between the two countries, according to TOLOnews.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, the defense minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, and Sergei Shoigu, secretary of Russia’s Security Council. Although officials did not reveal the full details of the deal, both sides described it as a move toward stronger cooperation in defense and regional security.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid reflected on Afghanistan’s difficult recent history. He said the country had suffered greatly during four decades of war and twenty years of American military presence. According to him, Afghanistan continues to face economic and humanitarian hardships, many of which have deepened because of international sanctions imposed after the return of the Islamic Emirate to power.
“We hope these interactions will become even stronger in the future,” Mujahid said, expressing optimism about closer ties with Moscow.
Sergei Shoigu also emphasized Russia’s interest in building a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. He stated that Moscow supports efforts by the Afghan authorities to fight terrorism and drug trafficking, two issues that continue to threaten regional security.
“We are interested in Afghanistan becoming a united, independent, and peaceful country,” Shoigu said during the event.
Political analysts believe the agreement could open the door to a broader partnership between Kabul and Moscow, especially in defense and security matters. Some experts say regional countries are increasingly looking toward Afghanistan as an important player in maintaining stability in Central and South Asia.
Abdul Basir Basirat, a political analyst, said such agreements are necessary for protecting common interests and strengthening regional security cooperation.
The signing comes only weeks after Shoigu announced in Bishkek that Russia had begun direct talks with the Islamic Emirate and was seeking a “comprehensive partnership” with Afghanistan’s current authorities. He also encouraged neighboring countries to expand their engagement with Kabul, signaling Russia’s growing diplomatic interest in Afghanistan.
