The Embassy of Afghanistan in Kazakhstan has confirmed that Mohammad-ur-Rahman, the Acting Ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) in Astana, held talks with Yerkin Tokumov, Kazakhstan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and pursue official diplomatic recognition, Ariananews.af reports.
According to a statement from the Afghan mission, the two officials discussed prospects for expanding political, economic, and cultural cooperation between their countries. The IEA envoy expressed optimism that Kazakhstan might follow Russia’s lead in recognizing Afghanistan’s current government and reaffirmed Kabul’s interest in deepening regional engagement.
During the meeting, Mohammad-ur-Rahman outlined the IEA’s foreign policy priorities, current investment opportunities, and domestic challenges, including the situation of Afghan refugees, the impact of recent floods, and employment concerns.
He also welcomed Russia’s decision to recognize the Islamic Emirate and encouraged Kazakhstan to consider a similar step.
In response, Tokumov reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s continued interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation, stating that Astana remains committed to engagement with Afghanistan across political, economic, and cultural domains.
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Islamic Emirate has sought greater diplomatic legitimacy and closer ties across the region. While most countries have maintained informal or limited contacts, recent developments - including Russia’s recognition - have added momentum to the Taliban-led government’s push for broader international acceptance.
Under its current leadership, Kazakhstan has maintained relatively warm relations with Kabul, providing humanitarian aid, engaging in economic cooperation, and participating in dialogue through regional platforms - though it has not formally recognized the Islamic Emirate.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
July 10, 2025