Special ties with Afghan people will guide India's approach: NSA Doval

NEW DELHI: India has always stood by the people of Afghanistan and this sentiment will continue to guide its approach, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval said on Friday at the 4th Regional Security Dialogue on Afganistan in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
The NSAs discussed the situation in Afghanistan and the region at a time when the Taliban government in Kabul is being accused of reneging on promises they made after seizing power in August last year.

They highlighted the need to find constructive ways to ensure peace and stability in Afghanistan and combating risks from terrorism emanating from the region.
National Security Advisers of Tajikistan, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan and China are participating in the dialogue. This is the first time that Doval has met his Russian counterpart since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February this year.
"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. India has focused on infrastructure, connectivity and humanitarian assistance over the decades," said Doval.

He added that since August 2021, India has provided Afghanistan 17,000 MT of wheat out of a total commitment of 50,000 MT, 5,00,000 doses of Covaxin, 13 tons of essential life-saving medicines and winter clothing as well as 60 million doses of polio vaccine.
Doval said there is a need for all present at the dialogue to enhance the capability of Afghanistan to counter-terrorism and terrorist groups which pose a threat to regional peace and security.
Calling for an inlcusive government, Doval highlighted the need for representation of all sections of Afghan society, including women and minorities, so that the whole Afghan population contributes to nation building.

"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 positive social impact including discouraging radical ideologies among youth," Doval added.
With collective efforts of regional dialogue members, we can help the proud people of Afghanistan build a prosperous and vibrant nation once again, he concluded.
(With inputs from agencies)