Russia’s Special Presidential Representative for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, says the military-technical cooperation agreement between Kabul and Moscow was concluded in accordance with Russian law and aims to restore Russian-made military equipment in Afghanistan and enhance the operational capabilities of Afghan forces.
Kabulov added that implementation of the agreement will begin soon, with the first phase focusing on repairing military equipment that is currently operational and in use in Afghanistan.
He stated: “The first phase of the military-technical agreement between Afghanistan and Russia will focus on repairing existing military equipment in Afghanistan and will begin with the equipment currently in use. The main objective is to help Afghans restore Russian-made equipment already available in the country and improve its operational capacity.”
Kabulov’s remarks have led to speculation that Russia may not only repair old Russian-made military equipment in Afghanistan but could also upgrade some systems with newer technology, which would represent a significant development for the country’s military capabilities.
Analysts say that although the agreement is primarily technical in nature, it could strengthen Afghan forces and improve their military skills and capabilities.
They argue that such agreements are not only important in military terms but may also contribute to Afghanistan’s regional and international legitimacy.
Political analyst Najibullah Jame said: “This agreement plays a role in strengthening Afghanistan’s military forces and its ability to defend the country. We not only support this agreement and consider it beneficial for Afghanistan, but it could also have a positive impact on Afghanistan’s international legitimacy. Afghanistan needs broader military and defense cooperation with Russia and other countries.”
Political commentator Shahzada Masood said: “This is a technical agreement. A large amount of military equipment, weapons, and aircraft from the former Soviet Union remains in Afghanistan. If the Russian Federation provides technical assistance in this regard, it will benefit Afghanistan. It is our right to have such agreements with countries in the region and around the world.”
Military analysts also say that the agreement represents an important first step toward strengthening Afghanistan’s security, national defense, and independence. They argue that Afghanistan, like any other country, has the right to enter into military agreements to ensure its defense and security.
Military affairs analyst Hekmatullah Hekmat stated: “The technical agreement signed between Russia and the Afghan government is essentially a first step toward protecting Afghanistan’s security forces, domestic security, and independence. Afghans support this step. It can help restore and maintain vehicles, technical equipment, transport aircraft, and helicopters that are mainly used for civilian and transportation purposes. Therefore, in accordance with international law, it is an agreement designed to protect Afghanistan’s interests and is not directed against any country.”
The military technical cooperation agreement was signed during the visit of Afghanistan’s Defense Minister, Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, to Moscow. Under the agreement, Russia will assist Afghanistan in repairing and restoring military equipment, a move that has reportedly been welcomed by many Afghans.
