Afghanistan and Russia have signed a military and technical cooperation agreement during the Moscow International Security Conference, marking a notable step in expanding defense-related engagement between the two countries, although official details of the agreement have not yet been disclosed.

The signing ceremony was attended by Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, Afghanistan’s Minister of Defense, and Sergei Shoigu, who represented Moscow at the event.

Speaking at the conference, Mujahid emphasized Afghanistan’s recent history of conflict, stating that the country had endured decades of war and foreign occupation, which he said left significant economic and humanitarian consequences. He also highlighted the impact of international sanctions on Afghanistan’s post-conflict recovery.

“We hope these interactions will be further strengthened,” Mujahid said, underscoring the importance of expanding cooperation following what he described as years of instability.

For its part, Russia reiterated its interest in a stable and unified Afghanistan. Shoigu stated that Moscow supports efforts aimed at strengthening security and combating terrorism and drug-related crimes.

“We are interested in Afghanistan becoming a united, independent, and peaceful country,” Shoigu said, adding that Russia acknowledges efforts made by Afghan authorities in addressing security challenges.

The agreement is being viewed by analysts as a potential step toward deeper defense and security cooperation between Kabul and Moscow, particularly at a time when regional alignments are undergoing significant shifts.

Political analyst Abdul Basir Basirat described such agreements as important for regional stability and the protection of shared interests, suggesting they could contribute to broader security coordination.

The development follows earlier remarks by Shoigu, who stated that Russia had begun direct engagement with Afghanistan’s current authorities and was seeking to build a “comprehensive partnership.” He also encouraged regional states to increase their diplomatic and practical engagement with Kabul.

The agreement signals a continued evolution in relations between Afghanistan and Russia, particularly in areas of security cooperation, though the full scope and implications of the deal remain unclear pending further official disclosures. (ILKHA)