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India Signals Readiness for Development Projects in Afghanistan

2 minutes read

India Signals Readiness for Development Projects in Afghanistan

2 minutes read

India’s Foreign Ministry has announced that the country will consider engaging in development projects in Afghanistan in the near future, marking a significant shift in policy despite the absence of formal diplomatic recognition of the Taliban government. This statement came after a pivotal meeting between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai, the first high-level dialogue since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.

The discussions, which took place on Wednesday, focused on India’s response to Afghanistan’s call for support in the health sector and refugee rehabilitation. According to the Indian Foreign Ministry’s statement, Afghanistan’s request for assistance was acknowledged, and India agreed to provide further material support initially in these areas.

The meeting also covered broader topics like bilateral relations and regional developments. The Afghan side expressed sensitivity to India’s security concerns, committing to maintain regular communication at various levels. The Indian Foreign Secretary emphasized the historical friendship between the two nations, highlighting the readiness to address Afghanistan’s urgent developmental needs.

Muttaqi expressed gratitude towards India for its ongoing humanitarian assistance, acknowledging India’s role as a vital economic partner in the region. Both parties discussed enhancing cooperation in sports, particularly cricket, which resonates with Afghanistan’s youth, and promoting trade through the Chabahar port in Iran for humanitarian and commercial purposes.

India has previously sent aid shipments including wheat, medicines, Covid vaccines, and winter clothing to Afghanistan, demonstrating a commitment to humanitarian aid despite not recognizing the Taliban government, which led to the closure of its embassy in Kabul in 2021. Similarly, Afghanistan’s embassy in New Delhi closed in November 2023 due to visa issues for its diplomats.

This renewed engagement reflects India’s strategic interest in maintaining influence in Afghanistan, focusing on humanitarian aid and development, while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the region.

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