Since the Taliban reconquered Afghanistan nearly four years ago, some Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members and a host of other non-Western governments have, in various ways, engaged the de facto authorities in Kabul. In doing so, these countries have been pragmatic in accepting that the Taliban is probably not on the verge of falling. High-profile meetings between Gulf and Taliban officials highlight the Islamic Emirate’s gradual integration into Eurasia’s diplomatic fold and the security architecture of Greater Central Asia.

Russia on July 3 became the first country to formally recognize Afghanistan’s Taliban government since its return to power in August 2021. As a permanent United Nations (UN) Security Council member, Moscow’s decision will likely further ease the Taliban’s inter

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