During an exclusive interview with Russia's Sputnik news agency, Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, discussed the potential recognition of the Islamic Emirate at a suitable juncture.

When queried by the agency's correspondent, she mentioned that Moscow is presently anticipating the arrival of the Islamic Emirate's ambassador, noting that the Russian leadership will decide on recognizing the Islamic Emirate "at the right moment."

Ms. Zakharova shared these comments while attending the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

To date, Russia has delisted the Islamic Emirate from its roster of proscribed organizations and has welcomed the Islamic Emirate's ambassador as part of efforts to fortify political ties with the Afghan government.