The Oslo Forum is a significant series of retreats designed for international mediators and peacemakers. Established in 2003, the Forum offers a discreet platform for high-level decision-makers and other actors involved in peace processes to collaborate and reflect on contemporary mediation practices. The event encourages cross-institutional collaborations and fosters negotiations’ advancement. It’s organized by the Royal Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, a private diplomacy organization based in Geneva that specializes in mediation and dialogue processes globally.
India made its first-ever participation in Norway’s Oslo Forum recently, aimed at discussing peace talks on Afghanistan. India had previously engaged in similar dialogues held in Moscow (2022) and Doha (2020). These discussions occur under the Chatham House Rule, meaning participants are free to use the information received, but the speaker’s identity or affiliation can’t be revealed.
India’s Approach Towards Afghanistan
While India has not recognized the Taliban regime officially, it has engaged with them concerning humanitarian and security issues. The primary objectives of India in Afghanistan include safeguarding its security interests and preventing potential terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil. India has solidified its reputation as a significant development partner of Afghanistan and earned the goodwill of Afghans. However, India does not limit its ambition within strategic confines but aims to contribute to creating a conducive environment for Afghans’ growth.
India has also been an active participant in regional and international forums to discuss Afghanistan’s current state and coordinate peace and stability efforts.
Significance of Afghanistan for India
Afghanistan is crucial for India due to multiple reasons: it serves as a gateway to the Central Asian Republics, rich in natural resources and potential markets; provides a counterbalance against terrorism and extremism threats emerging from Pakistan; and has cultural and historical ties with India. Additionally, India has invested over $3 billion in various infrastructure projects like roads, dams, schools, and hospitals and provides scholarships and humanitarian aid, among other assistance.
Implications of the Taliban Takeover on India’s Interests
The Taliban takeover, while being a significant geopolitical event, has severely impacted India’s interests. The security risks have increased as the Taliban is viewed as a proxy for Pakistan and supports anti-India terrorist groups. This shift in power also impacted India’s influence and leverage in the region because it had no direct engagement with the Taliban and heavily invested in the preceding government. Furthermore, the Taliban’s hostile approach to trade and development by halting cargo movement through Pakistan has caused uncertainty about India’s future role in Afghanistan’s redevelopment.
India’s Strategic Response To the Situation
India should adopt a balanced approach when dealing with Afghanistan. It should continue fighting to support human rights, counter terrorism, and the treatment of minorities while exploring areas of mutual interest such as trade, cultural exchange, and regional connectivity. Other strategic responses should include supporting Afghan reconciliation, engaging with influential regional players, focusing on development assistance, and strengthening international partnerships.
India’s Past Engagements with the Taliban
India has gradually increased its engagement with the Taliban. In 2017, India and other countries participated in the Moscow dialogue, aimed at facilitating the reconciliation process in Afghanistan and promoting regional cooperation on security and economic issues. In 2020, India joined the intra-Afghan peace talks taking place in Doha virtually. In August 2021, two weeks after the Taliban seized control of Kabul, India held its first publicly acknowledged meeting with Taliban representatives in Doha, focusing on humanitarian issues. A team of Indian officials visited Kabul in June 2022, marking the first such visit since the Taliban assumed power.