I would like relations between Russia and Afghanistan to develop in the best possible way, but as for the recognition of the Taliban movement (banned in the Russian Federation), we need to proceed from the realities in this matter.
This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a large press conference.
Answering a question about the prospects of recognizing the Taliban's power in Afghanistan, the Russian leader pointed out that Moscow would proceed from the realities and "from the fact that, after all, the forces that turned out to be at the head of Afghanistan will be tuned to ensure that all ethnic groups are represented in the leadership of the country."
"As for recognition, we are working in a consolidated manner with all participants in international communication, we have our own position, I have now stated it quite clearly, we will strive to ensure that this decision is consolidated," he said.
The Head of State expressed hope that relations between the Russian Federation and Afghanistan would develop in the best possible way. According to him, this is not an idle question, since Russia has open borders with the Central Asian republics, and the possible penetration of extremist elements cannot but cause alarm.
Putin stressed that assistance should be provided to Afghanistan, but first of all those "who were present there for 20 years, destroyed this economy" should help.
According to him, it is possible to unfreeze monetary reserves — Afghan holdings in American banks.
