On December 15, the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided a detailed response to the lower House of Parliament regarding “India’s Relationship with Afghanistan.” This response highlighted these relations’ current state and nature, reflecting India’s ongoing diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan.
Khaama Press obtained a copy of the document, revealing India’s focus on humanitarian aid and educational initiatives in Afghanistan. The update also underscored India’s support for Afghan traders and businesses operating within its borders. Additionally, the functioning of the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi was a notable point of discussion, shedding light on the diplomatic interactions between the two countries.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of India revealed that India’s approach to Afghanistan is shaped by historical ties and friendship with its people, aligning with UN Resolutions, including UNSCR 2593.
Following the Taliban’s takeover, Indian embassy staff in Kabul returned to India. Since June 2022, an Indian technical team has been stationed at the embassy, focusing on humanitarian assistance.
The statement also said that in addressing the worsening situation in Afghanistan, India has provided significant humanitarian aid, including 50,000 MTs of wheat, 250 tons of medical aid, and 28 tons of earthquake relief. These supplies were distributed through international agencies like the UN World Food Programme and the Afghan Red Crescent Society.
On the other hand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of India emphasized the Support for Afghan Drug Users. In collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Afghanistan, India has supplied 11,000 units of hygiene kits, baby food, blankets, clothing, and medical aid since 2022, focusing on the welfare of the Afghan drug user population, particularly women.
Moreover, India continues to offer scholarships to Afghan students through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Since August 2021, over 3000 students, including 600 girls, have been admitted. An online scholarship scheme has also been initiated for 1000 Afghan students, with 30% of admissions reserved for female students.
The document said that the trade between India and Afghanistan remains active, with significant activity through the Chabahar port, indicating ongoing economic engagement.
The report also emphasized that the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Embassy in New Delhi and its consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad continue to operate. Some Afghan diplomats have relocated to third countries, but those remaining in India maintain diplomatic functions.
India has contributed to over five hundred development projects across Afghanistan in various sectors. The Indian technical team in Kabul oversees these projects, ensuring their ongoing functionality and supporting additional humanitarian efforts.
The document does not explicitly mention a current proposal to reopen the Indian Embassy in Afghanistan. The focus remains on the technical team’s work in Kabul for now.
Meanwhile, India has taken steps to assist Afghan students, traders, and businesses operating in India, as evidenced by the educational and trade initiatives mentioned above.
India’s relationship with Afghanistan remains focused on humanitarian, educational, and developmental assistance, respecting historical ties and adapting to the current geopolitical context.
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