External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today expressed his deep appreciation to Afghanistan for its strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack on 22nd April. In a Joint Statement following talks between Dr. S. Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi, both sides unequivocally condemned all acts of terrorism emanating from regional countries. They underscored the importance of promoting peace, stability, and mutual trust in the region.
Both sides emphasized respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. External Affairs Minister appreciated Afghan side’s understanding of India’s security concerns. The Afghan Foreign Minister reiterated the commitment that the Afghan government will not allow any group or individual to use the territory of Afghanistan against India.
External Affairs Minister expressed condolences over the loss of lives caused by the recent devastating earthquake in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces. The Afghan Foreign Minister appreciated India’s role as the first responder to the disaster and its delivery of relief materials.
The two sides reviewed the progress of Indian humanitarian assistance programmes to Afghanistan, which include supply of food grains, social support items, school stationery, disaster relief materials and pesticides. The External Affairs Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to continuing such assistance. The Afghan side expressed appreciation to Indian government for its comprehensive and generous humanitarian support, including in providing crucial material aid to address the urgent needs of forcibly repatriated refugees in Afghanistan.
Both sides discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in sports, especially cricket, to advance cultural interactions. They welcomed the commencement of the India-Afghanistan Air Freight Corridor, which will further enhance direct trade and commerce between the two countries. The new corridor is expected to streamline connectivity and boost bilateral trade. The Afghan side invited Indian companies to invest in the mining sector which would help strengthen the bilateral trade and commercial relations.