india-afghanistan-to-promote-trade-through-chabahar

India has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding development projects in Afghanistan, focusing on healthcare, sports, and trade.

 

The discussions took place during a meeting between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai. Both sides underscored the importance of strengthening ties and fostering cooperation for mutual benefit.

 

The Indian government has pledged further material support to Afghanistan’s healthcare system, including assistance for refugee rehabilitation programmes.

 

This support is crucial to addressing the country’s pressing developmental needs. India also plans to bolster its partnership in the field of sports, particularly cricket, which holds significant cultural and emotional value for Afghanistan's youth.

 

Many Afghan cricketers, such as Rashid Khan and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, have gained recognition in the Indian Premier League, symbolising the strong sporting connections between the two nations.

 

In addition to these developmental initiatives, India and Afghanistan have agreed to promote the use of Iran’s Chabahar port to facilitate trade and commercial activities.

 

This port is expected to play a key role in humanitarian assistance and economic development. India has already sent multiple consignments of aid to Afghanistan, including large quantities of wheat, medicines, vaccines, and earthquake relief materials.

 

Recent shipments have also included hygiene kits, winter clothing, and resources for drug de-addiction programmes.

 

 

India's commitment to supporting Afghanistan stems from a longstanding friendship and deep people-to-people ties. Foreign Secretary Misri emphasised India's readiness to address Afghanistan’s urgent developmental needs while exploring opportunities for future engagement in larger projects.

 

These efforts aim to ensure stability and progress in the region.

 

The Afghan delegation expressed gratitude for India’s continued support, recognising the vital role India plays in aiding the country during challenging times.

 

They also highlighted their commitment to addressing India’s security concerns, reflecting a shared understanding of the importance of regional peace and stability.