Islamic Emirate Appoints Gul Hassan as Ambassador to Russia
Russian media, citing the Afghan Embassy in Moscow, report that the Islamic Emirate has appointed Mawlawi Gul Hassan as its new ambassador to Russia, with his arrival in Moscow expected soon.
Background and Credentials of Gul Hassan
Gul Hassan is a senior religious cleric who previously served as a member of the Taliban’s Quetta Shura, the group’s leadership council. He also held the position of consul in Quetta, Pakistan.
Official Recognition and Diplomatic Developments
The Russian Federation has issued formal agrément for Gul Hassan’s appointment, signaling official acceptance of the Taliban envoy. This move deepens Moscow’s diplomatic engagement with the Islamic Emirate, following Russia’s removal of the Taliban from its list of banned organizations and the handover of the Afghan embassy in Moscow to the Taliban.
Implications for Afghanistan-Russia Relations
Political analysts emphasize that appointing an ambassador to Russia, a key regional power, could strengthen the diplomatic standing of the interim government. It may increase Afghanistan’s political engagements and open opportunities for broader international relations despite the Islamic Emirate’s lack of widespread international recognition.
Analyst Abdul Sadiq Hamidzoi noted the appointment could enhance competition and engagement with other countries. Sayed Ebadullah Sadiq highlighted that countries willing to engage with Afghanistan contribute positively to regional stability and global benefits. Khalil Ahmad Nadim pointed out that Russia’s acceptance of the ambassador could be seen as near recognition of the Taliban government.
Russia’s Position and Regional Context
Russia’s Security Council secretary recently indicated that removing the Taliban from the banned list would facilitate expanded cooperation with Kabul. Russian officials have expressed concerns about NATO and U.S. attempts to return to Afghanistan and have warned about terrorist threats, particularly from ISIS-Khorasan.
Russia’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, confirmed that Moscow is reviewing the Islamic Emirate’s ambassador nominee and hopes to finalize the agreement soon. He also dismissed rumors about Russia planning to seize Bagram Airbase, emphasizing no such plans exist.
Summary
The appointment of Gul Hassan as ambassador to Russia marks a significant step in the Islamic Emirate’s efforts to establish formal diplomatic ties with a major regional power. While formal international recognition remains limited, Russia’s acceptance of the envoy signals a deepening relationship that could influence Afghanistan’s geopolitical landscape.
