NOVO-OGARYOVO. Sept 17 (Interfax) - It is necessary to work with the interim Afghan government formed by the Taliban (banned in Russia), while its recognition should be coordinated with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
"The Taliban movement is de facto in full control of the country and has formed its own government, which has assumed the responsibility for the future of Afghanistan. This is an interim government, which is acknowledged by the Taliban, and it cannot be described as either truly representative or inclusive, as we do not see representatives of other ethnic groups there. But, of course, as it seems, it should also be worked with," Putin said at a joint meeting of the heads of SCO and CSTO member states.
"As for the recognition, I believe I would agree with those who have spoken on that matter: we should coordinate our stance," Putin said.
The Russian president said it would be best to establish dialogue through the mechanism of the Extended Troika on Afghanistan. "Such work is already being done," he said.
Putin recalled the Moscow format of consultations on Afghanistan that involved many partners from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the CSTO. "It is possible to resume its activity if necessary, with the consent of all participatory states," he said.
Afghanistan has found itself in complete economic and social devastation after the pullout of Western forces, Putin said. "Many Afghans are so desperate that they are fleeing their home country. Hopefully, there will be no exodus of millions, but it's a fact that many are trying to leave the country, in particular, they are moving to neighboring states, thus creating a risk of infiltration of criminal elements," he said.
For historic, socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural, and geographic reasons, Afghanistan should be an integral part of the Eurasian space of security and cooperation, Putin said.
"Of course, we have keen interest in Afghanistan establishing itself as an independent, neutral, integral and democratic state," he said.