In recent years, Russia has increased its engagement with Afghanistan, particularly in the realm of transport communications, according to analyst Nargiza Umarova.
During the Taliban’s tenure, many regional and interregional transport projects have been revived, including the creation of the Kabul Corridor (Termez-Mazar-i-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar railway), and the construction of various railways connecting key Afghan cities like Khaf-Herat, Mazar-iSharif-Herat, and Herat-Kandahar. Moreover, talks to launch the Lapis Lazuli Corridor have gained momentum. These initiatives are being reevaluated by
external actors, each with their own strategic interests, contributing to new and ambitious developments in the region.
Among these external actors is Russia, which has notably deepened its contacts with the Afghan government regarding transport projects. One year ago, the Taliban invited Russia and Kazakhstan to join efforts in implementing the Trans-Afghan railway corridor, connecting Termez (Uzbekistan) to Peshawar (Pakistan).
Additionally, a project spearheaded by Turkmenistan proposes the construction of the Turgundi-Herat-Kandahar-Spin-Buldak railway, which would provide access to Pakistan’s seaports. Moscow has expressed its support for both initiatives, viewing them as opportunities to reorient its exports, particularly hydrocarbon resources, toward South Asia’s large market.
Russia’s involvement in these projects aligns with its broader strategy to develop its North-South transport corridor, which currently includes three transit routes: the western route through Azerbaijan, the trans-Caspian route through the Caspian Sea, and the eastern route via Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Recently, Russian media have hinted at the possibility of a fourth route—one that would traverse Afghan territory. Moscow sees these
Afghan transport arteries as key elements of its global trade strategy, potentially enhancing its connections with South Asia and the Middle East.
A signicant moment in this ongoing development occurred on November 25, 2024, when Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Security Secretary, led a high-level delegation to Kabul. During talks with Afghan ofcials, Russia reiterated its strong support for the construction of both the Western and Eastern railways through Afghanistan. For Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, this development presents an opportunity to attract additional cargo, further enhancing the economic appeal of their own agship transport projects involving Afghanistan.
Russia’s engagement with the Taliban government extends beyond infrastructure projects. Moscow has consistently raised the issue of intra Afghan settlement, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in Afghanistan for the successful construction of railways, gas pipelines, and other critical infrastructure.