Tehran-IRAF- Gol Hassan said in an interview with the media on Monday, February 1 that, Afghanistan intends to resume its participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Afghanistan holds observer status in the SCO but has not participated in its meetings in recent years. Hassan stated: “Afghanistan, as an observer country, should take part in the meetings of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. With the efforts of Russia and China, most member states have now reached the conclusion that Afghanistan’s renewed and active presence within this regional framework is possible. We hope to participate in future meetings as well.”
Afghanistan’s Heavy Dependence on Imported Electricity
The Taliban ambassador went on to address Afghanistan’s energy situation, noting that the country still imports around 80 percent of its electricity from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran. Domestic electricity production about 600 megawatts comes mainly from hydropower plants and is insufficient to meet national demand, with only 30 to 35 percent of the population having access to the electricity grid.
He said the Taliban government is seeking to expand solar and wind power projects, as well as the regional power‑transmission project CASA‑1000, in order to strengthen energy security.
Hassan also revealed that several Russian companies are in talks with Kabul to build small hydropower plants, adding:
“Russian companies have shown strong interest in investing in electricity generation. Some have already visited Afghanistan and held meetings with technical institutions. Practical steps in this area are expected to begin in the near future.”
Increase in Direct Flights Between Kabul and Moscow
He further announced plans to expand air connectivity between the two countries, stating:
“Over the past four years, Ariana Airlines has operated only one direct flight per week between Afghanistan and Russia. Work is now underway to launch direct Kabul–Moscow flights by Kam Air as well. With increased travel between the citizens of the two countries, the number of flights will also rise.”
Based on the provided statistics, the trade volume between Afghanistan and Russia in 2025 has seen a significant increase, reaching
for the entire year 0f 174 million.
It is predicted that the trade exchanges between the two countries, with a target of $3 billion, will continue their upward trend with an increase in Russia’s exports of fuel and food products, as well as a growth in Afghanistan’s exports of agricultural products.
