India pushes for representation of all sections of Afghan society at security dialogue on Afghanistan

"India was and is an important stakeholder in Afghanistan. Special relationships with the people of Afghanistan over centuries will guide India’s approach. Nothing can change this", Doval said. Writes ETV Bharat's, Chandrakala Choudhury.

New Delhi: NSA Ajit Doval on Friday highlighted the need for representation of all sections of Afghan society including women and minorities so that the collective energies of the largest possible proportion of the Afghan population feel motivated to contribute to nation-building. An Indian delegation led by NSA Ajit Doval left for Tajikistan on Thursday to participate in the regional security dialogue that reviews the situation in Afghanistan.

Following the Third Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan held in New Delhi in November 2021, the NSAs of Tajikistan, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, and China met in Dushanbe today, for the regional security dialogue on Afghanistan. Ever since the Taliban took over, India has been steadfast in providing aid and assistance to the Afghan people during the dire situation.

Taking forward the spirit encapsulated in the Delhi Declaration, the NSA discussed the situation in Afghanistan and the region today. They highlighted the need to find constructive ways to ensure peace and stability in Afghanistan and combat risks from terrorism emanating from the region.

"India has historical and civilisational relations with Afghanistan. India has always stood by the people of Afghanistan. This will continue to guide India’s approach," Ajit Doval said. He pointed out that India has focused on infrastructure, connectivity and humanitarian assistance over the decades. After August 2021, India has provided 17000 MT of wheat out of a total commitment of 50000 MT, 500000 doses of Covaxin, 13 tons of essential life-saving medicines and winter clothing as well as 60 million doses of polio vaccine.

Doval pointed out that there is a need for all present at the Dialogue to enhance the capability of Afghanistan to counter-terrorism and terrorist groups that pose a threat to regional peace and security. "Foremost priority should be the right to life and a dignified living as well as the protection of human rights of all", Ajit Doval said while adding that 'Assistance should be accessible to all, and respect for all obligations under international humanitarian law should be ensured'.

During the regional security dialogue, NSA Doval underlined that women and youth are critical for the future of any society. "Provision of education to girls and employment to women and youth will ensure productivity and spur growth. It will also have a positive social impact including discouraging radical ideologies among youth", he added.

"India was and is an important stakeholder in Afghanistan. Special relationships with the people of Afghanistan over centuries will guide India’s approach. Nothing can change this", Doval said. "With the collective efforts of Regional Dialogue members, we can help the proud people of Afghanistan to build a prosperous and vibrant nation once again", he added. NSA took the opportunity to meet his counterparts from Iran, Tajikistan, Russia, and other partners in the dialogue on the sidelines of the meeting.