New Afghan Ambassador to Russia Assumes Duties, Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Reported by Kokcha News Agency:
Gul Hassan, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s (IEA) newly appointed Ambassador to Russia, formally began his diplomatic duties on Tuesday during an introductory meeting with embassy staff in Moscow. In his address, Hassan emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities with integrity and fostering close collaboration with all embassy personnel.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan welcomed Russia’s formal acceptance of Hassan, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations. The Ministry expressed hope that this move would lead to expanded political, economic, and multilateral cooperation between Kabul and Moscow.

Deepening Engagement Between Afghanistan and Russia
Hassan’s appointment is part of a broader trend of deepening engagement between Afghanistan and Russia. Despite not formally recognizing the IEA as the legitimate government, Russia has continued to develop its diplomatic and economic ties with Afghanistan.

Hassan is the highest-ranking IEA diplomat to be stationed in Moscow since the IEA returned to power in August 2021. Prior to this appointment, he served as the IEA’s consul in Quetta, Pakistan.

Formal Acceptance by Russia
Last month, the IEA’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Russia had formally agreed to accept Hassan as ambassador. This decision followed a meeting between Dmitry Zhirnov, Russia’s ambassador in Kabul, and acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, during which the letter of diplomatic accreditation was handed over.