In this compelling episode of the Afghan Eye Podcast, host Sangar Paykhar sits down with Mir-Ali Askerov, a political scientist from the Higher School of Economics in Saint Petersburg, to discuss the recent high-level Russian delegation visit to Kabul, led by Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of Russia's Security Council.

Together, they dive deep into the historical context of Russia-Afghanistan relations, the implications of Shoigu’s visit, and the broader geopolitical shifts at play. Key topics include:

• Russia's plans for economic cooperation with Afghanistan, including mineral extraction and the trans-Afghan railway.
• The legal and political significance of removing the Taliban from Russia’s blacklist.
• The historical legacy of the Soviet-Afghan war and its influence on Russia’s modern policy.
• Afghanistan’s potential observer membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
• Shoigu’s sharp critique of U.S. policies, including the freezing of Afghan assets.

This episode offers an in-depth analysis of Russia’s strategic pivot to Afghanistan amidst increasing global tensions. Don’t miss this insightful discussion that unpacks what Shoigu’s visit means for Afghanistan, Russia, and the wider region.

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