AMN / WEB DESK
India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today said, India and Central Asian countries share deep-rooted historical and civilizational ties with Afghanistan. He stressed that ways must be found to help the people of Afghanistan.
The Minister said this while delivering his opening remarks at the third India-Central Asia Dialogue in New Delhi. He listed concerns and objectives regarding Afghanistan, including, a truly inclusive and representative government, the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking, ensuring unhindered humanitarian assistance and preserving the rights of women, children and minorities.
Dr Jaishankar said, the platform is an opportunity to review both bilateral and regional relationships. He appreciated the support extended to India by the international community during the second wave of Covid-19, especially fron Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
He said, India has supplied vaccines to more than 90 countries including Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The External Affairs Minister said, India has also offered COWIN platform to assist vaccination programmes to friendly countries.
Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are attending the Dialogue which is being chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.
A Joint Statement released after the India-Central Asia Dialogue said, the Ministers emphasized on the civilizational, cultural, trade and people-to-people linkages between India and Central Asian countries and reaffirmed their commitment to building a comprehensive and enduring India-Central Asia partnership.
The sides discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and its impact on the region.
The Ministers reiterated strong support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan while emphasizing the respect for sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and non-interference in its internal affairs. They also discussed the current humanitarian situation and decided to continue to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.
We must find ways to help Afghanistan: S Jaishankar at India-Central Asia dialogue