‘India has always stood by us’: Afghan foreign minister praises New Delhi in talks with S Jaishankar

Speaking on bilateral ties, he emphasised that Afghanistan will not allow its territory to be used to threaten or act against other nations (Image: ANI)

During his talks with external affairs minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi on Friday, Afghanistan foreign minister said lauded India’s support for the country over the years.

India has always stood with Afghan people and has assisted them in many areas, said Muttaqi, adding that they have been first responders in cases of emergency.

“In the recent earthquake in Afghanistan, India was the first responder. Afghanistan looks at India as a close friend. Afghanistan wants relations based on mutual respect, trade and people-to-people relations. We are ready to create a consultative mechanism of understanding, which helps towards strengthening our relations,” said Muttaqi.

On his visit to Delhi that began on October 9, Muttaqi said that he was happy to be in the national capital and added that the visit will increase the understanding between the two countries as well open a new chapter in the relations.

Speaking on bilateral ties, he emphasised that Afghanistan will not allow its territory to be used to threaten or act against other nations.

Muttaqi's visit from October 9-16 marks the first high-level delegation from Kabul to New Delhi since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021.

Meanwhile, in a significant diplomatic move, India on Friday announced the upgrading of its Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of the Embassy of India.

EAM S Jaishankar made the announcement during the meet with Muttaqi.

"India is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Afghanistan... To enhance that, I am pleased to announce today the upgrading of India's Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of Embassy of India," Jaishankar said during his opening remarks.

Jaishankar also appreciated the solidarity by Afghanistan in wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and Afghanistan's sensitivity towards India's security concerns.

In his remarks the Union Minister said, "Your visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan."