India has reaffirmed its commitment to the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Afghanistan during the eighth Moscow Format Consultations held on 20 October 2023. The Indian delegation, led by Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar alongside Joint Secretary (PAI) Dr M Suresh Kumar, shared New Delhi’s stance on Afghan issues at this international forum hosted by Russia.

The consultations featured participation from several countries including Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The Afghan delegation was represented by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, with Belarus and Egypt attending the discussions as guest participants.

The Embassy of India in Russia articulated its long-standing friendship with Afghanistan, asserting that India remains resolutely committed to the welfare of the Afghan populace. This statement comes amidst ongoing tensions, as Pakistan has reportedly conducted cross-border military operations in Afghanistan, which has drawn international scrutiny.

International Collaboration And Humanitarian Aid

During the meeting, participants collectively acknowledged that there is no viable alternative to fostering cooperation with Kabul on equitable terms while promoting Afghanistan’s integration into the global economy. The Russian Foreign Ministry noted that the discussions underscored the necessity for regular humanitarian assistance for the Afghan people, emphasising that such support should be free from political motives.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov remarked on the significance of establishing and maintaining productive partnerships with the Afghan population. He noted that the forum serves as a valuable platform for a substantial dialogue regarding international assistance to Afghanistan, which needs to be coordinated closely with the Afghan authorities.

Lavrov also highlighted that August 2026 will mark five years since what he termed Afghanistan’s liberation from two decades of Western occupation. He attributed the end of military presence by the United States and its NATO allies to the Afghan people’s resilience and resolve.

Counterterrorism Efforts And Economic Development

In his remarks, Lavrov praised Afghanistan’s uncompromising efforts against ISIS and other terrorist factions, along with its initiatives to combat drug trafficking. He noted significant strides, including the elimination of hundreds of militants and the prevention of various high-profile terrorist activities.

He emphasised the importance of enhancing Kabul’s counterterrorism capacity through material support and expertise, highlighting that maintaining intelligence and law enforcement cooperation serves the interests of all participating countries. His comments reflect a broader commitment to regional stability.

Regarding Afghanistan’s economy, Lavrov remarked that it continues to progress despite facing severe sanctions from Western nations. The resilience of Afghanistan’s economic landscape, according to him, is a testament to the efforts of the Afghan people even under challenging conditions.

The Moscow Format, established in 2017, includes special representatives from eleven countries, such as Russia, India, Iran, China, and Pakistan, and aims to facilitate national reconciliation and promote peace within Afghanistan. The forum’s continued existence underscores the global commitment towards bringing stability to a nation long affected by conflict.

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