Uzbekistan’s State Security Service chief meets Taliban Defense Minister in Kabul

On July 22, Colonel-General Bahodir Kurbonov, head of the State Security Service of Uzbekistan, met in Kabul with Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, who is currently serving as the acting Minister of National Defense of the Taliban administration.

According to the Taliban’s Ministry of Defense, the meeting was also attended by SSS Deputy Chairman Farrukh Mukhtorov, Deputy Chairman and Commander of the Border Troops Salimjon Hasanov, as well as other members of the official delegation.

The Uzbek side reportedly noted its satisfaction with the current security conditions and economic development in Afghanistan, while also emphasizing the importance of strengthening bilateral relations.

“The Acting Minister of National Defense expressed appreciation for the positive stance of the Uzbekistan government regarding Afghanistan on international stages, and highlighted the expansion of relations between the two neighboring countries. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on border cooperation, establishing mutual relations, and other relevant matters,” the official statement read.