India has aligned with Russia, China, and seven other nations to oppose foreign military deployment in Afghanistan. This comes after former US President Donald Trump called on the Taliban to hand over the strategic Bagram Airbase to the United States.
Moscow Format Talks on Afghanistan
The decision was made during a new edition of the Moscow Format talks, which focused on promoting prosperity and development in Afghanistan.
Participating countries described foreign attempts to deploy military infrastructure in Afghanistan and neighboring states as unacceptable, stating that such moves do not serve regional peace and stability.
The meeting also marked the first participation of Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
Emphasis on Counter-Terror Cooperation
The countries called for strengthened counter-terrorism cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
A joint statement noted:
“Afghanistan should undertake comprehensive measures to eliminate terrorism swiftly so that its soil is not used as a threat to neighboring countries or the wider world.”
The statement underlined that terrorism remains a serious threat to Afghanistan, the region, and global security.
Participating Countries
In addition to India, Russia, and China, the talks included Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
The nations highlighted the importance of Afghanistan’s economic integration with regional partners to ensure stability and prosperity.
India’s Stand on Afghanistan
The Indian delegation, led by Ambassador Vinay Kumar, reaffirmed support for:
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An independent, peaceful, and stable Afghanistan
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Socioeconomic development and prosperity for the Afghan people
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Regional resilience and global security
Kumar emphasized that a secure Afghanistan benefits both the Afghan people and neighboring countries.
Russia’s Perspective
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the regional and global situation is “complicated” but praised efforts towards stability in Afghanistan.
Lavrov highlighted positive developments, including a reduction in areas under narcotic cultivation. He also assured Russia’s commitment to supporting Afghanistan in combating drug trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime, while ensuring peace for its people.
