All news

Russia ready to help restore Afghan economy

Russia is ready to take part in projects to restore the Afghan economy, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said at a session of the SCO heads of government in an expanded format

ST. PETERSBURG, November 7 (Itar-Tass) — Russia is ready to take part in projects to restore the Afghan economy, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said at a session of the SCO heads of government in an expanded format.

“The strengthening of regional security, fight against terrorism, separatism and organised crime and of course against drug trafficking is an unconditional priority in the activity of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation,” Putin stressed.

“It is in our common interests to see peace and stability shortly restored in Afghanistan. Russia is ready to take part in projects to restore the Afghan economy, and will continue offering necessary aid to Afghan friends,” the Russian prime minister added.

He also said that all SCO countries “need guarantees of security and stable development”. “We must safely protect our citizens against any threats and any risks,” the prime minister said, adding that “the SCO is open for cooperation”.

According to him, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation believes members of the organisation must determine plans for stabilization in the region and its development on their own.

As for expanding the geography of CSO responsibility, Putin said Russia would welcome if CSO approved applications for joining its activity in this or that form from all states interested in that. “This will only increase the possibilities, authority and influence of the SCO,” the prime minister stressed.