External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar emphasised the need for India and Afghanistan to work together in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In his opening remarks during the meeting with the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, in New Delhi, Dr Jaishankar said both nations have a common commitment towards growth and prosperity.

 

 

The Minister said India has a deep interest in Afghanistan’s development and progress. He said that the government is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Afghanistan. He said, closer cooperation between both nations contributes to Afghanistan’s national development, as well as regional stability and resilience. The External Affairs Minister also announced the upgrading of India’s Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of the Embassy of India.

 

 

Dr Jaishankar said India is ready to commit to six new projects and gift 20 ambulances as a goodwill gesture. He said India will also provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunisation.

Speaking on the occasion, Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqui said that his country will not allow any forces to threaten or use Afghan territory against other nations. He said Afghanistan has never given statements against India and always valued its good relations. He added that Afghanistan wants relations based on mutual respect, trade and people-to-people relations.