Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister of Afghanistan’s interim Taliban government, in Moscow on Friday. The discussions, held ahead of the sixth Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan, addressed key issues of bilateral cooperation, with a strong focus on regional stability and mutual economic interests.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, both ministers emphasized the significance of regional negotiation mechanisms, particularly the Moscow format, in addressing Afghanistan’s internal matters. They criticized external interference, underscoring that solutions for Afghanistan’s development must come from within.
Lavrov and Muttaqi reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing political trust and exploring avenues for expanded trade, particularly in energy and agriculture. These sectors hold promise for joint projects that could benefit both nations.
Following the bilateral talks, the two diplomats joined the opening session of the Moscow Format Consultations, which gathered special representatives and senior officials from Russia, India, Iran, China, and several Central Asian nations. Observer countries were excluded from this year’s meeting.
Both meetings were held behind closed doors, with discussions centered on Afghan national reconciliation, regional cooperation in counter-terrorism, and anti-drug initiatives.
