Moscow, 2 October 2021 (TDI): Russia’s Foreign Ministry has urged the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and Tajikistan to resolve the dispute peacefully. The Spokesperson of Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Alexey Zaytsev, said reports indicate that both sides have stationed forces on their borders.
Tajik President, Emomali Rahmon has refused to recognize the Taliban-appointed Cabinet in Kabul. President has repeatedly called for the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan. The Taliban has also warned Dushanbe against meddling in Kabul’s domestic affairs. Ethnic Tajiks make up more than a quarter of Afghanistan’s population, but the Taliban cabinet predominantly belongs to the Pashtuns.
Tajikistan held military parades in two provinces bordering Afghanistan. Local officials in Badakhshan Province have also said that Special Forces are on alert in areas bordering Tajikistan.
Tajikistan’s Foreign Ministry was not immediately available for comment on the reports. The Islamic Emirate, however, rejected reports that it had sent special troops to the border areas with Tajikistan. Meanwhile, Mohammad Naeem Wardak, the Spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate’s Political Office in Doha, said they will not allow any country to meddle in Afghanistan affairs.
