ISTANBUL 

Russia is currently reviewing a nominee proposed by the Taliban interim administration in Afghanistan to serve as ambassador in Moscow, Russia’s presidential envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, said on Friday.

Speaking at the 16th Kazan Forum, Kabulov said the necessary procedures are underway within Russian institutions to assess the diplomat’s credentials.

“This nominee is currently undergoing the necessary approval procedures within Russian institutions. I hope that once the process is complete, an agreement will be signed,” he was cited by TOLO News as telling reporters.

Kabulov also rejected claims that Russia intends to seize Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan, addressing remarks by US President Donald Trump, who had accused Moscow of attempting to gain control of the former American military hub.

“Never, not now or at any other time, has such a plan existed. To control a base, you must first possess it; the Americans have already lost it,” Kabulov said.

Last month, Russia’s Supreme Court suspended the ban on the activities of the Taliban, who were included in the country's list of banned terrorist organizations in 2003.