Afghanistan Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Calls For Regional Stability Amid Diplomatic Talks With India
Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 people. The condemnation came during a high-level meeting between Muttaqi and Anand Prakash, Joint Secretary of the Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran (PAI) Division at India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in Kabul. The meeting, which focused on a range of bilateral issues, underscored the shared commitment to regional security and stability.
According to sources, Anand Prakash also provided specific details about the tragic Pahalgam attack during his talks with Afghanistan's foreign minister. In addition to discussing the terrorist incident, the two diplomats addressed political relations, trade, transit, and regional developments that affect both countries.
The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan had already expressed its strong condemnation of the attack, emphasizing its devastating impact on efforts to foster regional peace. A statement issued by Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that such incidents undermine efforts to maintain security and stability across the region. The Ministry also offered condolences to the victims' families.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan categorically condemns the recent attack on tourists in the Pahalgam region of J&K, and expresses condolences to the bereaved families," said Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Abdul Qahar Balkhi, in a statement.
The Afghan Foreign Ministry went further, stressing that such attacks not only disrupt the lives of individuals but also threaten the broader stability of the region. "Regarding the recent attack on tourists in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan condemns the attack on tourists in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir and offers condolences to the families of those killed in the incident. Such incidents threaten security and stability in the region," the statement continued.
In his meeting with Anand Prakash, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi emphasized the importance of enhancing diplomatic and economic relations between Afghanistan and India. He urged Indian investors to take advantage of Afghanistan's current opportunities for investment, citing the potential for mutual growth and cooperation in various sectors.
Muttaqi also proposed facilitating the movement of people between the two countries by restoring normal visa services for businessmen, patients, and students.
Anand Prakash, for his part, reiterated India’s commitment to further strengthening its ties with Afghanistan. “Relations with Afghanistan are important to his country, and he hopes to further expand relations in various fields,” said Prakash. He also expressed India’s desire to continue cooperation with Afghanistan, including resuming stalled infrastructure projects.
In conclusion, both sides agreed on the importance of fostering stronger bilateral relations through diplomatic exchanges, facilitating visa processes, and continuing cooperation in various sectors. Both Afghanistan and India stressed the need for regional peace and stability, with a shared understanding that overcoming these challenges requires consistent dialogue and collaboration.
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