New Delhi: In a historic diplomatic shift, Russia has become the first nation to officially recognise the Taliban government since it seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021. The announcement signals a significant change in Moscow’s foreign policy and may pave the way for further international engagement with the Taliban regime.
Russia receives Taliban envoy, signals formal recognition
The Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday that it had formally accepted the credentials of Gul Hassan Hassan, the newly appointed Afghan ambassador to Moscow. The acceptance of diplomatic credentials marks the first official recognition of the Taliban-led government by any country since the group’s return to power.
“This step opens the door to productive bilateral cooperation,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Afghanistan calls it a ‘historic step’
Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry responded by calling Russia’s recognition a “historic step,” with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi describing it as “a good example for other countries.” The Taliban leadership has long sought formal recognition on the international stage but has faced stiff resistance due to human rights concerns, especially around the treatment of women and girls.
Taliban rule and international isolation
The Taliban returned to power in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces. While the group initially pledged a more moderate approach compared to its earlier rule from 1996 to 2001, it soon began imposing strict Islamic laws. Women and girls have borne the brunt of these policies, with bans on female education beyond the sixth grade and restrictions on employment, public gatherings, and access to recreational spaces.
