Recently, a regional security dialogue on Afghanistan was held in Delhi. The conference was composed of National Security Advisers (NSAs) from regional countries and was chaired by the NSA of India.
Conference participants called for urgent humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan and urged close cooperation and consultation between regional countries on the Afghan scenario. This is the third meeting within the framework of the dialogue on regional security.
Highlights
Neighbouring countries of Afghanistan such as Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and other major players such as China and Russia was called upon to attend this meeting. India is concerned about the security of the region after US troops withdraw and the Taliban take over Afghanistan. Terrorism can spread from the territory of Afghanistan.
Key points of Discussion
Reaffirming strong support for a safe, peaceful and stable Afghanistan, emphasized respect for unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs. Committed to combating terrorism in all its forms. Local members have been asked to ensure that Afghanistan does not become a haven for global terrorism. Fundamental rights that is, the basic rights of children, women and minorities are not infringed. Non-discriminatory support must be provided to all sectors of Afghan society. Call for collective cooperation against the threat of extremism, radicalization, drug trafficking and separatism in the region. Referring to the relevant UN resolutions on Afghanistan, it was noted that the continued existence of the United Nations (UN) in Afghanistan should be maintained. The recent UN Resolution 2593 reaffirms the importance of fighting terrorism in Afghanistan, including individuals and entities designated under Resolution 1267.
Response
Russia has expressed the view that several dialogue mechanisms “should not complicate” the development of Afghanistan under Taliban control. China and Pakistan were also invited to attend the talks, but both did not attend. In addition, there were no representatives of the former Afghan government or the Taliban. The Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan NSA did not mention the word terrorism at all in their introductory text.
Conclusion
The solution comes from the formation of a comprehensive government involving all ethnic groups. Russia has maintained its relationship with the Taliban in recent years. India will need Russia’s support in the form of direct involvement with the Taliban. India should discuss with China to find a lasting stability and a political solution and Afghanistan. The meeting with the Taliban could allow India to demand security from armed groups in exchange for further development assistance and other promises, and to consider the possibility of Taliban autonomy from the government of Pakistan.
Last Modified: February 13, 2024