Russian business head calls for visa-free travel between Russia, Afghanistan

Rustam Khabibullin, head of the Russian Business Center in Afghanistan, has called for the abolition of visa requirements between Russia and Afghanistan. Khabibullin made the proposal in anticipation of the 2026 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), suggesting it as a logical step to enhance rapidly expanding relations between Moscow and Kabul. He highlighted recent diplomatic advancements, including Afghanistan's ambassador presenting credentials to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the first joint commission meeting held during the Russia–Islamic World Forum in Kazan. Khabibullin also noted the signing of a military and technical cooperation agreement during an international security forum. He asserted that visa-free travel would stimulate trade and tourism, bolster economic cooperation, and provide access to new markets for both nations. The Republic of Tatarstan, home to major Russian export companies, would particularly benefit from such a move.

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Relations between Moscow and Kabul are expanding rapidly and that easing travel procedures for businesspeople and tourists would be a logical next step in strengthening bilateral ties.