Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held talks with Afghanistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai on Wednesday. The two sides discussed various issues affecting bilateral relations as well as regional development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
Misri reiterated India’s commitment to continue providing humanitarian and development assistance to the Afghan people. The Afghan minister thanked India for its continued support to Afghanistan.
“Due to the current need for development activities, it has been decided that India should consider getting involved in development programs in the near future, in addition to the ongoing humanitarian program,” said the ministry.
The two sides also discussed the strengthening of cricket cooperation between the two countries, “which is very important for the new generation of Afghanistan”. Both sides also agreed to promote the use of Chabahar port to support commercial and trade activities, including for the purpose of helping the people of Afghanistan.
The ministry noted India’s aid to Afghanistan and said that India has sent many goods to the neighboring country, including 50,000 tonnes of wheat, 300 tonnes of medicines, 27 tonnes of earthquake relief, 40,000 liters of pesticides, doses of -100 million polio, 1.5 million doses of Covid vaccine, Units 11,000 hygiene kits for the drug cessation program, 500 units of winter clothing and 1.2 tons of stationery.
“In response to the request of the Afghan side, India will provide more support in the field of health and rehabilitation of refugees,” he said.
“The Afghan side has emphasized its sensitivity regarding India’s security. Both sides have agreed to remain in touch and continue regular communication at various levels,” the ministry added.