Five years ago, the Taliban returned to power after US forces withdrew from Afghanistan. In this special episode of India, Russia, and the World, Runjhun Sharma, Head of News at RT India, sits down with the Taliban’s chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid. Under Taliban rules, the two were not filmed in the same frame. He says the country is “undoubtedly” better off without foreign forces on its soil. While he admits there are problems, he says Afghanistan is moving in a positive direction. He speaks about Kabul’s desire to strengthen ties with India. He also discusses Afghanistan’s relationship with Russia, saying Kabul wants to benefit from Russia’s experience in rebuilding the country, while also seeking greater cooperation in fuel and energy.

We also speak to Muhajir Farahi, the Taliban government’s Deputy Minister of Information and Culture, who says Western sanctions are hurting ordinary Afghans. He defends the Emirate’s right to set its own laws based on Islamic values and national interests. “We don’t allow anyone to interfere in our internal affairs,” says Farahi.