Latest news with #MawlawiAmirKhanMuttaqi
Qatar Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Al Khulaifi, Afghan minister discuss latest developments in Afghanistan
Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi received a phone call on Tuesday from Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Caretaker Government of Afghanistan HE Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. During the call, they discussed the latest developments in Afghanistan and ways to support the Afghan people. The Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Caretaker Government of Afghanistan expressed, during the call, his country's appreciation for the State of Qatar's efforts in facilitating the return of a second group of Afghan citizens from Germany to their country.
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz : International Relations MCQs on M23 rebel group, Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific and more (Week 119)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on International Relations to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at With reference to 'Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific', consider the following statements: 1. It was launched by UNDP on the sidelines of COP28. 2. It aims to attract investment programs that incorporate nature-based solutions, particularly focused on capital markets and other sources of private capital. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Explanation According to — ' The Asian Development Bank (ADB) launched a Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific at COP28 which aims to attract at least $2 billion into investment programs that incorporate nature-based solutions, particularly focused on capital markets and other sources of private capital.' Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. The Kamchatka region was in the news due to a 6.6 magnitude earthquake. The region is part of: (a) United States (b) Kazakhstan (c) Italy (d) Russia Explanation — A magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck near the coast of the Kamchatka region in the far east of Russia, the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) said. The quake was at a depth of 10 km, GFZ said. It initially reported a magnitude of 6.2 for the earthquake. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. Which country has decided to formally recognise the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan? (a) China (b) Iran (c) Russia (d) Ukraine Explanation — At a meeting on July 3, Russia's Ambassador to Kabul, Dmitry Zhirnov, informed Taliban Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi that Russia had decided to formally recognise the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. — The Afghan foreign ministry welcomed Russia's action as 'a historic step that will set a good example for other countries'. It remains to be seen whether China, Pakistan, and other countries will follow Russia's lead. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Which of the following states/ is set to take over Bitra island, an atoll, to make use of it for defence purposes? (a) Andaman and Nicobar Islands (b) Tamil Nadu (c) Andhra Pradesh (d) Lakshadweep Explanation — The administration of Lakshadweep intends to take over Bitra Island, an atoll in the Union Territories, for military use. However, the idea has been met with opposition, with local MP Hamdullah Sayeed promising to address the issue in Parliament. — A government notification released on July 11 highlighted the idea for Lakshadweep's Department of Revenue to take over the whole land area of Bitra island and transfer it to relevant Central defence and strategic agencies, according to news agency PTI. — Bitra is the least populated of the ten inhabited islands in the Lakshadweep UT, with 271 persons according to the 2011 Census. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. The Han Guang drill is the biggest-ever military exercise conducted by: (a) Taiwan (b) Philippines (c) Japan (d) North Korea Explanation — The Han Guang drills (Taiwan's 'biggest-ever' military exercise) 'began with exercises to counter the actions of Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia ships that have been harassing Taiwanese ships around offshore island groups close to the Chinese coast', the Taiwanese Defence Ministry said. — Regular forces will be backed up by 22,000 reservists and 'realistic conditions' will be simulated. According to the Associated Press, this could be 'a possible attempt to counter criticisms that past exercises have veered on the performative'. — The Chinese government criticised Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), saying the drills could not stand in the way of the 'historical trend of national reunification'. Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer. With reference to the M23, consider the following statements: 1. This rebel group has been backed by Nigeria and Algeria. 2. They have signed a declaration of principles in Qatar to end decades-long fighting in eastern Congo. 3. The peace deal between M23 rebels has been facilitated by Russia. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Explanation — Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels signed a declaration of principles in Qatar to end decadeslong fighting in eastern Congo that commits them to a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive peace agreement to be signed in one month. Hence, statement 2 is correct. — A final peace deal is to be signed by August 18, and it 'shall align with the Peace Agreement between Congo and Rwanda' mediated by the US in June, according to a copy of the proclamation obtained by The Associated Press. Hence, statement 3 is not correct. — The M23, backed by neighbouring Rwanda, is the most visible of more than 100 armed groups vying for control of Congo's mineral-rich east. With 7 million people displaced in Congo, the UN has described the conflict as 'one of the most protracted, complex, and serious humanitarian crises on Earth.' Hence, statement 1 is not correct. Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer. Consider the following pairs: UN Specialised Agencies : Headquarters 1. Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) : Rome 2. International Labour Organisation (ILO) : Geneva 3. International Monetary Fund (IMF) : New York Which of the following are not correctly matched? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1 and 3 only Explanation The IMF headquarters in Washington, D.C. (Source: Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Which is the second largest inter-governmental organisation in the world after the United Nations? (a) G20 (b) Organization of American States (c) Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (d) African Union Explanation — The OIC, which was known as the Organisation of the Islamic Conference until 2011, is the second largest inter-governmental organisation in the world after the United Nations, with a membership of 57 countries spread across four continents. The OIC describes itself as 'the collective voice of the Muslim world', and its stated objective is 'to safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony among various people of the world'. — The OIC has reserved its membership for Muslim-majority countries. The Central African Republic, Russia, Thailand, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and the unrecognised Turkish Cypriot 'state' have Observer status. Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 117) Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 119) Daily subject-wise quiz — Science and Technology (Week 119) Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 119) Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment and Geography (Week 119) Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 118) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
News18
04-07-2025
- Politics
- News18
Explained: What Russia's Recognition Of Taliban Government Means For Afghan Diplomacy
Last Updated: Sources told News18 that Russia's recognition is considered a step in the right direction for the Taliban regime but short of full international legitimacy. Russia officially recognised the Taliban government of Afghanistan on July 3, 2025, becoming the first nation to do so and signaling a major diplomatic change in the region. The step, which was announced following a meeting in Kabul between Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov and Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, has been labeled by Afghan officials as a 'historic step" and the start of a new era in bilateral relations. But the significance of this recognition remains complicated, since formal international validation of the Taliban is still dependent upon the United Nations and global opinion. Sources told News18 that Russia's recognition is considered a step in the right direction for the Taliban regime but short of full international legitimacy. Sources highlight that formal recognition from the UN protocol division is required, and until that time comes, the Taliban will be diplomatically isolated. The development is considered part of a larger trend with most nations interacting with the Taliban at various levels to secure their interests and ensure regional stability. India has followed a watchful but pragmatic policy towards the Taliban regime. Although New Delhi has not officially recognised the Taliban, it has resumed a diplomatic mission in Kabul and permitted the Taliban to send a Consul General to Mumbai. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri just held talks with Taliban representatives, which was the highest level of interaction since the Taliban came to power. India's engagement is motivated by security interests, competition for influence in the region against China, and an interest in keeping a handle on Afghanistan. Russia's Diplomatic Revitalisation: From Isolation to Engagement Russia's relationship with the Taliban has evolved dramatically over the past two decades. In 2003, Russia designated the Taliban as a terrorist organisation due to its support for separatists in the North Caucasus. However, the Taliban's resurgence in 2021 and the shifting geopolitical landscape prompted Moscow to reassess its stance. In April 2025, Russia's Supreme Court removed the Taliban from its list of banned organizations, paving the way for official recognition. The Announcement and What It Means Russia's Foreign Ministry made the announcement that it accepted credentials from Afghanistan's newly appointed Ambassador Gul Hassan Hassan, marking the beginning of 'productive bilateral cooperation." The ministry highlighted that this acknowledgement would promote cooperation in the fields of energy, agriculture, and anti-terrorism. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi welcomed the move, terming it a 'good example for other countries" and hoping that it would spur further global involvement. Why did Russia Embrace the Taliban? Strategic Interests Russia's move is based on pragmatic reasons. Moscow considers the Taliban a ground reality and feels that talking to them is necessary in order to protect its interests in Central Asia. The Kremlin is seriously troubled by the ISKP threat, which carried out attacks in Afghanistan as well as Russia. By accepting the Taliban, Russia hopes to enhance security cooperation and counter-terrorism. Economic Opportunities Russia is also interested in huge economic benefits that can be derived from Afghanistan, especially in areas like energy, transportation, and agriculture. The Russian Foreign Ministry pointed to the promise of trade and infrastructure initiatives, which could be mutually advantageous for both nations. This economic aspect is a major reason Moscow is ready to normalise relations with the Taliban. Regional Influence By assuming the lead in recognising the Taliban, Russia becomes a central figure in deciding Afghanistan's future. This decision is most probably aimed at projecting greater Russian influence in the region and establishing a precedent for other nations to do the same. It also constitutes part of Russia's larger policy of interacting with regimes that risk being isolated by the West and thus increasing its diplomatic presence. Engagement Without Recognition: The Global Approach China has also dealt with the Taliban at multiple levels. Beijing has entertained Taliban ambassadors and permitted them to hold sway over Afghanistan's embassy in China, but not formal recognition. China is guided by economic interests, security concerns, and also a reluctance to be seen as the first major power to recognise the Taliban's controversial policies. top videos View all Other Countries Some other nations, such as Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, have established diplomatic ties with the Taliban but stopped short of conferring formal recognition. Such engagement is usually driven by regional, economic, or security interests, but all fall short of overt diplomatic support. First Published:
Al Bawaba
03-07-2025
- Politics
- Al Bawaba
Russia becomes first nation to officially recognize Taliban government in Afghanistan
Published July 3rd, 2025 - 07:39 GMT The Afghan Foreign Ministry hailed the move as "brave," while Russia's ambassador in Kabul described it as a 'historic development' in bilateral relations. ALBAWABA- — In a landmark diplomatic move, Russia has become the first country to officially recognize the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan, marking a major shift in international engagement with the Islamic Emirate. Also Read American detainee freed in a Qatari-brokered deal with Taliban According to a statement by Afghanistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Russian government formally recognized the Taliban administration, with the Russian Ambassador in Kabul, Dmitry Zhirnov, delivering the message personally to Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. The Ambassador of the Russian Federation, Mr. Dmitry Zhirnov, called on IEA-Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. During the meeting, the Ambassador of Russian Federation officially conveyed his government's decision to recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Afghanistan (@MoFA_Afg) July 3, 2025 During the meeting, Zhirnov conveyed President Vladimir Putin's decision to extend official recognition, reportedly made at the recommendation of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The Afghan Foreign Ministry hailed the move as "brave," while Russia's ambassador in Kabul described it as a 'historic development' in bilateral relations. In Moscow, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that Deputy Foreign Minister accepted the credentials of Gul Hassan as Afghanistan's new ambassador, a formal step cementing diplomatic ties. Images shared online showed the flag of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan flying over the Afghan embassy in Moscow. The recognition is likely to have significant geopolitical ramifications, as global powers remain divided over how to engage with the Taliban regime since its return to power in 2021. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
The Star
01-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Afghanistan welcomes upgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan
This handout photograph taken on April 19, 2025, and released by Afghan interim government's Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows its Acting MInister of Foreign Affairs Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi (left) shaking hands with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar upon his arrival for a bilateral meeting in Kabul. HANDOUT/AFGHAN INTERIM GOVERNMENT'S MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS via AFP KABUL: Afghanistan has welcomed the decision to upgrade diplomatic relations with Pakistan, where the Taliban government's foreign minister is due to travel in the coming days, his office said on Saturday (May 31). The move signals easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, as relations between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan - already rocky - have cooled in recent months, fuelled by security concerns and a campaign by Islamabad to expel tens of thousands of Afghans. Pakistan's top diplomat on Friday said the charge d'affaires stationed in Kabul would be elevated to the rank of ambassador, with Kabul later announcing its representative in Islamabad would also be upgraded. "This elevation in diplomatic representation between Afghanistan & Pakistan paves the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in multiple domains," the Aghan foreign ministry said on X. Kabul's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is due to visit Pakistan "in the coming days", ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad Takal told AFP. Muttaqi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in May in Beijing as part of a trilateral meeting with their Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Wang afterwards announced Kabul and Islamabad's intention to exchange ambassadors and expressed Beijing's willingness "to continue to assist with improving Afghanistan-Pakistan ties". Dar hailed the "positive trajectory" of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations on Friday, saying the upgrading of their representatives would "promote further exchanges between two fraternal countries". Only a handful of countries - including China - have agreed to host Taliban government ambassadors since their return to power in 2021, with no country yet formally recognising the administration. Russia last month said it would also accredit a Taliban government ambassador, days after removing the group's "terrorist" designation. - AFP
