Timofei Boikov, the head of the division of the second department of Asia at the Russian Foreign Ministry, has stated that Russia views representatives of the Taliban movement, which is banned in Russia, as a "negotiable force." Boikov emphasized the importance of overcoming stereotypes about Afghanistan and highlighted that the Russian Federation is fostering relations with Kabul and the interim government.
"We believe that the Taliban is a negotiable force. We believe that they are in full control of the situation in the country. We are building equal relations with them in the interests of trade and economic cooperation," stated Boikov during a discussion on Afghanistan at the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He underscored the need for events that explain the situation in Afghanistan, focusing on removing stigma from the country.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS