The following article outlines the significant topics discussed during the 3rd India-Central Asia Dialogue.
The 3rd Meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue
The 3rd meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue, a ministerial-level discussion between India and the Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, took place recently in New Delhi. After the collapse of the USSR in 1991, all these nations, excluding Turkmenistan, gained independence and are part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Their dialogue primarily focuses on enhancing connectivity and stabilizing Afghanistan.
Emphasizing International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
Among the key points discussed were the optimum utilization of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), and the Ashgabat Agreement on International Transport and Transit Corridor for better connectivity between India and Central Asian countries. The importance of including Chabahar Port within the INSTC framework was highlighted, along with an interest in strengthening regional connectivity in Central and South Asia.
Exploring Potential Connectivity Projects
The attendees agreed to explore potential connectivity initiatives like China’s Belt and Road Initiative, provided they adhere to principles of transparency, broad participation, local priorities, financial sustainability, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Situation in Afghanistan
The current situation in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover was discussed, considering its impact on the region. Key points included terrorism, the humanitarian crisis, and the importance of non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.
Counter Terrorism Efforts
The worldwide community was called upon to implement relevant UN resolutions, global counter-terrorism strategies, and Financial Action Task Force standards.
Proposing a Line of Credit
A line of credit worth USD 1 billion, proposed by India for infrastructure projects in Central Asia, is currently being discussed by all involved countries.
Post-pandemic Recovery
The significance of extensive vaccination was stressed, with a call for cooperation in vaccine sharing, technology transfer, local production capacity development, and promotion of medical product supply chains.
Restoration of Tourism and Historical Ties
There was support for gradually restoring tourism and business ties between India and Central Asian countries. The need to build on historical and cultural ties was emphasized, along with potential cooperation in connectivity, transport, transit, and energy.
Role of International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
India highlighted the role of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for rapid solar energy deployment and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in promoting disaster resilient infrastructure to reduce economic losses.
India’s Permanent Membership at UNSC
The Central Asian countries reiterated their support for India’s permanent membership in an expanded and reformed UN Security Council (UNSC) and appreciated India’s ongoing non-permanent tenure in the UNSC.
Appreciation for Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)
The role of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program in capacity building and human resource development in Central Asian countries was appreciated. They particularly noted its contributions in Information Technology and Communication Skills in the English language.
To summarize, the 3rd India-Central Asia Dialogue centered around bolstering regional and international organization ties, enhancing regional transport and connectivity, addressing terrorism threats, managing post-pandemic recovery, and reinforcing historical and cultural bonds.