Russian diplomat: Have facilitated visas for Afghans

MAZAR-I-SHARIF (Pajhwok): The issuance of more visas for Afghan nationals in Mazar-i-Sharif has been facilitated, says the Russian consul general in northern Balkh province.

Alexey Pereverzev said this at a meeting with Balkh Governor Haji Mohammad Yousuf Wafa at his office in Mazar-i-Sharif on Wednesday.

The officials discussed diplomatic ties between the two countries, enhanced bilateral trade and economic development, the governor’s office said.

Pereverzev thanked the governor for ensuring security of the Russian consulate and thereby enabling the mission to carry out its routine activities in a satisfactory manner.

He also pointed to friendly relations between Afghanistan and Russia, suggesting the two countries should further strengthen their ties.

The diplomat assured the governor that his country stood by Afghanistan and would continue to cooperate with the Islamic Emirate.

He said the consulate had increased the number of visas compared to the past and was still trying to provide even greater facilities to applicants.

The international community did not know much about the positive image of Afghanistan, he said, promising Russia would try to paint the country’s true image.

The governor said Afghanistan and Russia had strong relations in terms of trade and commerce. However, he believed, it was necessary to further bolster bilateral cooperation.

Wafa assured the Russian consul-general the provincial administration would continue to cooperate with the mission on all issues, including foolproof security.

aw/mud