Days after Russia officially recognised the Taliban government in Afghanistan, speculations are rife over whether Pakistan will follow suit. While Pakistani officials have maintained that they are in "no hurry" to extend formal recognition, Moscow’s move has once again pushed the question to the forefront.

Russia has become the first nation to recognize the Taliban government of Afghanistan since it took power in 2021, announcing on Thursday it has accepted an ambassador from the Islamist group.

Russia said on Thursday it had accepted the credentials of a new ambassador of Afghanistan, making it the first nation to recognise the Taliban government of the country.