New Delhi, November 8, 2024 — In a strategic initiative to bolster economic ties and humanitarian support, an Indian delegation met with Afghanistan’s acting Defence Minister, Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, earlier this week. The delegation, led by J.P. Singh, Joint Secretary of the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division in India’s External Affairs Ministry, extended an offer for Afghan businesses to utilize the Chabahar Port in Iran. Additionally, discussions were held on providing extended humanitarian assistance to Kabul.
The high-level meeting took place amidst ongoing challenges in Afghanistan, where the Taliban regime has been in power since 2021. Despite not officially recognizing the Taliban government, India has maintained a steady flow of humanitarian aid to the Afghan populace, underscoring its commitment to the region’s stability and prosperity.
During a weekly media briefing in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided further insights into the delegation’s discussions. “Apart from Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, the delegation also engaged with former President Hamid Karzai and other senior ministers, alongside heads of various UN agencies,” Jaiswal stated. He emphasized that the talks encompassed a range of topics, including India’s humanitarian assistance and the strategic utilization of the Chabahar Port to facilitate Afghanistan’s trade operations.
The Chabahar Port, located in southeastern Iran, has been a focal point of India’s regional trade strategy. Earlier this year, India inked a 10-year contract with Iran to develop and operate the port, a project that signifies deepening economic collaboration between the two nations. By offering Afghanistan access to this key maritime hub, India aims to enhance trade routes, reduce dependency on Pakistan for access to the Arabian Sea, and stimulate economic growth within Afghanistan.
“Discussions revolved around how the Chabahar Port can be leveraged by the Afghan business community for transactions, exports, imports, and other commercial activities,” Jaiswal elaborated. He highlighted that the port’s strategic location offers Afghanistan a vital link to international markets, potentially transforming its economic landscape.
India’s outreach to Afghanistan comes at a critical juncture, as the country grapples with economic instability, infrastructural challenges, and humanitarian crises. The Taliban government’s governance has been marred by international isolation, making external assistance crucial for the country’s development and the well-being of its citizens.
“I also want to recall that providing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan is a cornerstone of our aid programme,” Jaiswal added. “Over the past few years, we have dispatched several shipments of essential supplies, including wheat, medicines, and medical equipment. Our longstanding ties with the Afghan people continue to guide our approach, ensuring that our support remains consistent and impactful.”
The meeting also included interactions with senior Afghan officials and representatives from United Nations agencies, indicating a multi-faceted approach to addressing both economic and humanitarian needs in the country. The presence of former President Hamid Karzai, a prominent figure in Afghan politics, underscores India’s intent to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders to facilitate comprehensive support for Afghanistan.
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The Chabahar Port project itself has been lauded as a game-changer for regional trade dynamics. By providing Afghanistan with direct access to the sea, the port is expected to significantly reduce transit times and costs for goods, fostering a more vibrant trade environment. Moreover, the collaboration with Iran highlights India’s commitment to leveraging regional partnerships to achieve broader economic objectives.
India’s offer to utilize the Chabahar Port is not only a strategic economic move but also a diplomatic gesture aimed at strengthening bilateral relations with Afghanistan and enhancing regional stability. By facilitating trade and offering humanitarian aid, India positions itself as a key player in supporting Afghanistan’s recovery and development efforts.
As Afghanistan continues to navigate its complex political and economic landscape, international partnerships and support will remain crucial. India’s proactive engagement, exemplified by the recent delegation’s visit and the offer of access to the Chabahar Port, underscores its dedication to fostering a resilient and prosperous Afghanistan.
In conclusion, the recent meeting between the Indian delegation and Afghanistan’s acting Defence Minister marks a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations and supporting Afghanistan’s economic and humanitarian needs. The utilization of the Chabahar Port, coupled with ongoing humanitarian assistance, reflects India’s strategic vision for a stable and economically vibrant South Asia.
