Zamir Kabulov, the Russian president’s special envoy for Afghanistan, said that “terrorist” groups are present in Afghanistan and called on the Taliban and Pakistan to resolve their issues through cooperation rather than confrontation.
He told RIA Novosti: “We call on our friends in Afghanistan and Pakistan to engage in cooperation in counterterrorism. Terrorism cannot be defeated alone.”
Kabulov said Russia is ready to mediate between the parties if requested, although no such request has been received so far.
He added that, given some steps aimed at reducing tensions—including a ceasefire during Eid al-Fitr—it appears that there is a general understanding in both Islamabad and Kabul that continued military confrontation is unproductive.
The Russian foreign ministry adviser said it is difficult to predict how long the military standoff between the Taliban and Pakistan will continue.
He noted that Pakistan has for several years accused the Taliban of lacking willingness to take practical steps to curb the activities of “anti-Pakistan terrorist groups” based in Afghanistan.
Kabulov arrived in Kabul on Monday for a two-day visit.
