Pakistan, May 14 -- Russia is establishing a "full-fledged partnership" with Afghanistan's Taliban government, senior official Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday. Moscow said stronger cooperation with Kabul would support regional security, trade, and long-term development efforts. The announcement signals Russia's expanding diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan after formally recognising the Taliban government.

According to Russia's Interfax news , Shoigu described Moscow's dialogue with the Taliban as pragmatic and constructive. He said cooperation covered security matters, trade relations, humanitarian assistance, and cultural engagement between both sides. Shoigu currently serves as secretary of Russia's Security Council and remains a ke...