Russia is exploring the possibility of removing the Taliban (banned in Russia) from its list of terrorist organizations, though discussions remain in a preliminary phase, according to Yuri Ushakov, Aide to President Vladimir Putin.
“There are arguments in favor of starting cooperation with the Taliban,” Ushakov said during a briefing, emphasizing that these considerations are still theoretical.
The issue of Afghanistan, he added, is a regular topic at CSTO meetings, particularly those involving heads of state. It is expected to feature prominently at the upcoming CSTO summit in Astana on November 28.
Earlier, Russia's Special Representative for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov stated that a high-level decision to delist the Taliban had been made, though formal legal steps are still required. FSB Director Alexander Bortnikov also noted that Moscow recognizes the Taliban's efforts to combat Wilayat Khorasan, a dangerous offshoot of the Islamic State (IS, banned in Russia). Ushakov previously indicated that the Taliban might soon be removed from Russia's list of banned organizations.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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Based on TASS materials