Russia helps build peaceful, independent Afghanistan - Putin

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. Russia helps establish a peaceful and independent Afghanistan, which will be free from terrorism and drug crime, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a ceremony to receive credentials from new ambassadors on Wednesday. Afghanistan’s Ambassador Mohammad Latif Bahand attended the ceremony. "This year, we are marking the centenary of establishment of diplomatic relations with Afghanistan. We provide assistance in establishing a peaceful and independent Afghan state, which is free from terrorism and drug crime. We call for an end to armed confrontation in Afghanistan and for the launch of an inclusive dialogue with participation of broad public and political forces," the Russian president said. Putin added that Russia "will be helping in the process alongside partners in the Moscow Group and the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group." Read more