The normalisation of ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan is crucial for regional peace and stability and serves the shared interests of all stakeholders, Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P Khorev has said.
In an exclusive interview with The Express Tribune, Khorev highlighted the role of the Moscow Format of Consultations on Afghanistan – an international platform that he said had proven its effectiveness in fostering dialogue.
"It brings together all regional players without exception, including Pakistan and India," he noted.
On ISKP, he reaffirmed Russia's stance, saying "ISIS is one of the greatest threats to Russia's national and regional security".
He said Kremlin was paying the closest attention to the issue of combating terrorism, and was working closely with regional partners within the framework of the same formats.
Referring to the 'Eurasian Security' concept proposed by President Vladimir Putin, the envoy also underscored Russia's broader approach to conflict resolution. "It is based on the following principle: regional solutions to regional conflicts."
Moreover, he noted that the approach has already found understanding and support among "our closest like-minded countries on the continent".
"Russia is open to strengthening cooperation with all Eurasian states, including Pakistan, including in the context of resolving conflicts by peaceful means."
Describing it as "a unique platform", he said that the Moscow Format has for the first time managed to bring together representatives of the Afghan Taliban movement, then in opposition, and the Afghan republican regime.
The effectiveness of the format, he added, was evidenced by the fact that it regularly manages to reach a region-wide consensus on ways to develop Afghanistan, taking into account the position of the current Afghan government.
"The Moscow Format has already established itself in a broad regional context: at various stages, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have joined its work," he added.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the platform was also unique in that the United States has participated as an observer. "I would like to express my personal opinion that if the Trump administration shows interest in coming back to work in this format, Moscow will carefully consider such an intention."
As for the future, the Moscow Format, with Russian mediation, could become a suitable platform for resolving differences between Islamabad and Kabul, if both sides deem it appropriate, he added.
Regarding the Kremlin's engagement with Kabul despite the diplomatic isolation of the Taliban regime, the ambassador said Russia sought practical cooperation with the current Afghan authorities in areas of mutual interest, with an emphasis on intensifying bilateral trade and economic ties.
In addition, Russia is interested in developing regional connectivity projects involving Russia, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asian countries.
Regarding the security concerns and Russia's efforts with regional partners to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a hub for international jihadist networks, he said Moscow plays a key role in regional counterterrorism efforts.
He added that the cooperation takes place both bilaterally and in the framework of international organisations such as the SCO and the Collective Security Treaty Organisation.
"We support the struggle of Afghanistan, Pakistan and other states in the region against the common threat of terrorism and extremism," he added.
Regarding China's role in Afghanistan, he stressed that China was one of Russia's closest partners on the Afghan issue, adding that the positions of both countries on key aspects of the Afghan settlement were close or coincided.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ