Russian Envoy Visits Pakistan to Discuss Afghanistan, Region

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s special envoy for Afghanistan, will travel to Islamabad on Thursday. 

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, said in a press briefing that Zamir Kabulov is set to arrive in Islamabad today, where he will discuss issues related to Afghanistan and the role of neighboring countries in supporting peace and stability with Pakistani officials.

The spokesperson said: “The two sides will review the situation in Afghanistan and discuss the role of neighboring countries in promoting regional peace and stability.”

Russia is among the countries that have established good relations with the Islamic Emirate. 

Previously, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stressed practical dialogue with Afghanistan’s interim government at the sixth Moscow Consultative Format meeting on Afghanistan. 
Lavrov also stated that engaging with Afghan interim authorities is essential for regional security and economic development.

“Both Pakistan and Russia intend to pressure the Islamic Emirate into concessions. In my view, Pakistan and Russia have orchestrated this for their own benefit,” said Moeen Gul Samkanai, a political analyst.

Kabulov’s visit to Pakistan comes as relations between Kabul and Islamabad have cooled due to Pakistan’s repeated allegations that Afghan territory is being used against it.