Participants of the Seventh Moscow Format Meeting on Afghanistan expressed support for “an independent, peaceful Afghanistan, free from terrorism and drugs,” according to a statement released by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.
For the first time, the Taliban flag appeared alongside those of other participating countries in an official photo published by the ministry.
The meeting, held on October 7 in Moscow, brought together special representatives from Russia, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and the Taliban movement.
In its final communiqué, the Russian Foreign Ministry described the Moscow Format as “the most authoritative multilateral platform” on Afghanistan. Participants emphasized the need to strengthen regional coordination and pursue practical approaches to achieving peace and stability in the country.
Discussions also focused on expanding economic, political, and trade cooperation between Afghanistan and its regional partners. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a sovereign and stable Afghanistan and underscored the importance of delivering humanitarian aid without political conditions.
The statement further highlighted the key role of regional mechanisms, such as the Moscow Format, in facilitating peace efforts and ensuring long-term stability in Afghanistan.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The two discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation and coordination at both regional and international levels.
CentralasianLight.org
October 7, 2025