Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced that Moscow is in contact with the Taliban to combat drug trafficking, terrorism, and organised crime.

Zakharova stated that it is in Russia's interest to respond pragmatically and align with the country’s national interests.

Speaking to TASS news agency on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, Zakharova said, "The presence of a delegation from the 'Taliban movement' at this forum is not accidental, as there are prospects for strengthening beneficial trade relations."

Zakharova mentioned that there are significant regional projects that include Afghanistan. Regarding the process of removing the Taliban from Russia's list of terrorist organisations, she said, "Experts in various departments are working on this."

The 27th St. Petersburg Economic Forum was held from June 5 to 8, with Abdul Manan Omari, the Taliban's Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, leading a delegation at the forum.

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that establishing relations with the Taliban is a necessity, noting that the Taliban controls Afghanistan and its territories. In a meeting with journalists in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, he said, "We take into account the views of each of our partners and friends, and we will coordinate on this issue accordingly."