Moscow says it will continue counterterrorism efforts in Afghanistan

KABUL: Russia has emphasized that combating terrorism is a top priority for the BRICS group and will continue its efforts in Afghanistan and the surrounding regions. In an interview with a TV, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted that Moscow and New Delhi are working together to establish an international treaty against terrorism within the framework of the United Nations. Lavrov noted that discussions at the governmental level are ongoing, but no international consultations have yet been presented. He also mentioned that India is emphasizing food and energy security, as well as the protection of information and communication technologies, as part of this year’s BRICS agenda. Since 2021, Moscow has expanded its relations with the Taliban and has officially recognized their government. In his interview, Lavrov stated that India will host an international conference on artificial intelligence in February, in which Russia plans to actively participate. He stressed the need for transparency regarding the military applications of artificial intelligence. The senior Russian official characterized the world as moving towards a multipolar system, pointing out the changing global balance of economic growth among BRICS members and other emerging countries.