Stringer / EPA
Moscow formalized recognition of the Islamic emirate of Afghanistan established by the talibans. Measure “brave and historical,” say Taliban.
China greeted Russia’s decision on Friday to become the first country to officially recognize the Taliban government, reaffirming its commitment to maintain an foreign policy of friendship with the Afghan people.
“As a traditionally friends with Afghanistan, the China has always considered that the country should not be excluded from the international community“The spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Mao Ning, said at a press conference.
Beijing thus reacted to the decision of Moscow to formalize the recognition of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, established by the Taliban after the power of power in Cabul, in August 2021, following the military removal of the United States and Allies.
The Russian decision was acclaimed by the Taliban as a “Brave and historical” measure. Regime Minister of the regime, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, said it is “an important milestone in the history of bilateral relations” and establishes “a positive precedent” for other countries to follow the example.
Despite maintaining diplomatic representations in at least 14 countries, including China, Turkey, and Pakistan, Taliban had not yet been formally recognized by any state until Moscow’s decision.
In December 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin promoted a law that removed the talibans from the list of terrorist organizations of Russia – a condition considered essential to allow official recognition. Taliban had been included in this list in 2003, accused of maintaining calls with active armed groups in Chechnya.
Russia began to strengthen contacts with the talibans years before its return to power and welcomed several delegations in Moscow.
By now formally recognizing the regime, Moscow breaks with international consensus That since 2021 it has remained reluctant to legitimize the Taliban government due to the restrictions imposed on women’s rights and the absence of an inclusive political process.
Moscow recognized the new Islamic emirate at a time when Taliban seeks to break external isolation and promote Afghanistan as a connectivity platform between central and southern Asia.
For now, countries like China and Pakistan have accepted diplomatic representatives appointed by the Taliban and maintain regular contacts, but without formalizing diplomatic recognition.
