New Delhi, May 27 (Representative) India is an important stakeholder in Afghanistan and its special relationship with Afghans over the centuries will guide New Delhi, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval said on Friday. “Nothing can change this.” Doval was speaking to security chiefs of Tajikistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan and China in the Tajik capital. The participating NSAs took forward the spirit of the Delhi Declaration, passed in New Delhi last year, as they discussed the situation in Afghanistan and the region. In his statement at the fourth Regional Security Dialogue, Doval said India has always stood by the people of Afghanistan and will continue to do so. “There is a need for all present at the dialogue to enhance the capability of Afghanistan to counter terrorism and terrorist groups,” he said. “There is a need for all present at the Dialogue to enhance the capability of Afghanistan to counter terrorism and terror groups which pose a threat regional peace and security. The foremost priority should be right to life and a dignified living as well as protection of human rights of all.
“India was and is an important stakeholder in Afghanistan. Special relationship with people of Afghanistan over centuries will guide India’s approach. Nothing can change this,” he added. Doval said that since August 2021, when the Taliban seized power in Kabul, India has provided 17,000 tonnes of wheat out of a total commitment of 50,000 tonnes, 500,000 doses of Covaxin, 13 tonnes of essential lifesaving medicines and winter clothing as well as 60 million doses of polio vaccine to Afghanistan. He also highlighted the need for representation for all sections of the Afghan society, including women and minorities, in the government so that the collective energies of the largest possible proportion of the Afghan population feel motivated to contribute to nation building. He stressed that humanitarian assistance should be accessible to all and respect for all obligations under international humanitarian law should be ensured. “Women and youth are critical for the future of any society. Provision of education to girls, employment to women and youth will ensure productivity and spur growth. “It will also have positive social impact including discouraging radical ideologies among youth.”