RASC News Agency: Russia is looking to mediate between Afghanistan’s Taliban and the Pakistani government to ease tensions between the two sides. The Russian ambassador to Islamabad has stated that Moscow is ready to facilitate negotiations between Pakistan and the Taliban through the “Moscow Format.” Albert Khorev, the Russian envoy, noted that given the ongoing tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban, Moscow is prepared to act as a mediator provided both parties agree.
The Russian diplomat emphasized that disputes can be resolved through mediation and expressed confidence that the issues between the Taliban and Pakistan could also be settled. He reiterated that the Moscow Format could serve as a viable platform for this diplomatic effort. In an interview with Russia’s state news agency RIA Novosti, Khorev stressed that resolving these differences is primarily the responsibility of Islamabad and the Taliban. However, he noted, “this issue also aligns with Russia’s interests.” On Wednesday, March 19, the Russian ambassador stated: “The normalization of relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan (the Taliban) will contribute to regional peace and stability, which is also in our shared interest.”
He reaffirmed that Moscow has consistently supported stability in the region and will continue to do so. Tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have recently escalated. On February 22, border forces from both sides clashed over the construction of a Taliban security post and the installation of a road sign by Pakistani forces at a zero-point border location. Following this confrontation, Pakistan shut down the Torkham border crossing, halting both passenger movement and trade. Meanwhile, the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks inside Pakistan. Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Afghanistani Taliban of providing safe havens for TTP militants an allegation the Taliban has consistently denied.
To date, the primary point of conflict between the Taliban and Pakistan has been the presence of TTP fighters in Afghanistan.
