Russia Raises Security Concerns Over Afghanistan as Taliban Seeks Stronger Economic Ties

DID Press: Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, has stated that Afghanistan and the security developments surrounding it are at the heart of regional concerns, particularly within the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) agenda. During a meeting with Talatbek Masadikov, the CSTO Secretary-General in Moscow, Lavrov emphasized that emerging security threats in Central Asia and the situation in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s return to power remain significant challenges for member states of the alliance.

The CSTO, which includes Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, operates on the principle of collective defense, meaning any attack on one member is regarded as an attack on all members. According to Russian officials, instability in Afghanistan could have direct consequences on regional security.

At the same time, the Taliban government is working to expand its economic relations with Russia. Gol Hassan, the Taliban ambassador in Moscow, announced that the group is interested in purchasing Russian oil, gas, and other goods. He added that if banking restrictions are lifted, the bilateral trade volume could significantly increase. The Taliban has expressed interest in importing Russian medicines, grains, vegetable oils, and industrial products, and plans are underway to hold a trade exhibition of Afghan goods in Moscow.

The Taliban’s ambassador in Moscow also revealed that the two sides are discussing the possibility of attracting Afghan labor to Russia. The Taliban is ready to introduce skilled and young workers for employment opportunities in Russia.

Meanwhile, negotiations are ongoing to expand direct flights between Kabul and Moscow, with Kam Air expected to launch direct routes.

These developments reflect that while Russia views Afghanistan as one of the key security challenges in the region, the Taliban is simultaneously seeking to strengthen economic ties and establish new channels of cooperation with Moscow. This shift could have a significant impact on both regional security dynamics and economic relations.