Uzbek Intelligence Chief Meets Taliban Interior Minister to Discuss Security Cooperation and Counter-Narcotics Efforts

Kokcha News Agency: A delegation from Uzbekistan, headed by Kurbanov Bakhodir, the chief of Uzbekistan’s intelligence agency, held talks with Taliban Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani in Kabul. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral security cooperation, combating narcotics trafficking, and improving coordination along the Afghan-Uzbek border.

The Uzbek delegation included General Mukhtorov Farrukh, Deputy Intelligence Chief of Uzbekistan, and General Khasanova Salimjon, Commander of the country’s Border Forces. On the Taliban side, senior officials such as Mohammad Nabi Omari, First Deputy Interior Minister; Abdul Haq, Deputy Minister for Counter-Narcotics; and Sayedullah Hamas, Deputy Minister for Public Security, attended the meeting.

During the discussions, both sides emphasized the importance of joint efforts to combat the production and trafficking of synthetic and agricultural narcotics. They also highlighted the need for enhanced coordination along the shared border to prevent cross-border threats and ensure regional stability.

Haqqani described the visit by Uzbekistan’s intelligence chief as “an effective step toward strengthening bilateral relations,” adding that expanded security cooperation is crucial for regional stability.

In addition to security matters, the two sides reportedly discussed the potential for deepening economic ties. Bakhodir expressed appreciation for the Taliban’s efforts to ensure the security of Uzbekistan’s economic projects in Afghanistan, calling it a sign of constructive cooperation between the two nations.

The Taliban Ministry of Interior framed the visit as part of broader regional engagement aimed at bolstering political, economic, and security ties with neighboring countries.

The Uzbek delegation also met with Taliban Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, where discussions included bilateral military coordination, border communications, and related matters.