ALBAWABA- Russia and the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan signed a military-technical cooperation agreement during the International Security Forum in the Moscow region, marking a major step in the expanding relationship between the two sides.
Sergei Shoigu and Afghan Acting Defense Minister Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid signed the agreement. The deal aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defense, security, and technical fields, although specific details of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed.
Russian officials described the pact as part of efforts to establish a “full-fledged partnership” with Kabul, reflecting Moscow’s growing engagement with the Taliban government since formally recognizing the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in July 2025 and removing the group from Russia’s list of terrorist organizations.
The agreement underscores Russia’s broader strategic focus on regional stability, counterterrorism cooperation, and the expansion of its influence in Central Asia and the wider Eurasian region. It also highlights Moscow’s interest in Afghanistan’s geographic position, transit potential, and natural resources.
For the Taliban administration, the agreement represents a significant diplomatic and security breakthrough at a time when the government remains largely unrecognized internationally. The deal is expected to support the Taliban’s efforts to modernize its military capabilities and strengthen international legitimacy following its return to power in 2021.
The military cooperation pact builds on earlier Russia-Afghanistan engagement in areas including trade, infrastructure, and humanitarian assistance. While some observers have speculated about future security coordination beyond Afghanistan, both sides have emphasized that the agreement focuses on mutual security interests and regional peace.
The signing highlights the continuing geopolitical realignment in the region as major powers adapt to the realities of Taliban rule and seek to expand strategic partnerships across Central and South Asia.
