External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held a historic meeting with Afghanistan’s Taliban Foreign Minister, during which he emphasised the mutual threat of cross-border terrorism, a statement perceived as an indirect critique of Pakistan.
Speaking at the talks, Jaishankar said, “Excellency, we have a common commitment towards growth and prosperity; however, these are endangered by the shared threat of cross-border terrorism that both our nations face. We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We appreciate your sensitivity towards India’s security concerns, your solidarity.”
Reaffirming India’s longstanding commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s health sector, Jaishankar announced a new package of aid and initiatives. He stated, “For the health security of Afghanistan, including during the Covid pandemic, we are now ready to commit to six new projects, whose details can be announced after the conclusion of our talks. A gift of 20 ambulances is another gesture of goodwill, and I would like to hand over five of them to you personally as a symbolic step. India will also provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunisation and cancer medicines. We have also supplied drug rehabilitation materials through the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.”
The meeting highlighted India’s dual focus on engaging with Afghanistan to address shared security concerns, particularly cross-border terrorism, and advancing humanitarian and developmental cooperation. Jaishankar’s remarks underscored India’s firm stance against terrorism while signaling its intent to strengthen ties with Afghanistan through health and infrastructure support.
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