Russia has become the first country in the world to formally recognize Afghanistan's Taliban government. This improves the radical group's standing on the world stage, and puts pressure on the West to follow suit.

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 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.