Foreign Secretary of India, Vikram Misri held discussions with Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai on Wednesday, said Ministry in a statement. The talks focused on various aspects of bilateral relations as well as regional developments.

Misri reaffirmed India’s commitment to continue providing humanitarian and development assistance to the Afghan people. In response, the Afghan minister expressed gratitude for India’s ongoing support.

“In view of the current need for development activities, it was decided that India would consider engaging in development projects in the near future, in addition to the ongoing humanitarian assistance programme,” the ministry said.

The two sides also addressed strengthening cricket cooperation, which is highly appreciated by Afghanistan’s younger generation. Additionally, they agreed to further promote the use of the Chabahar port to support trade and commercial activities, including for humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.

The ministry highlighted India’s extensive humanitarian contributions to Afghanistan, which include shipments of 50,000 metric tonnes of wheat, 300 tons of medicine, 27 tons of earthquake relief aid, 40,000 litres of pesticides, 100 million polio vaccine doses, 1.5 million Covid-19 vaccine doses, 11,000 hygiene kits for drug de-addiction, 500 winter clothing units, and 1.2 tons of stationery kits.

“In response to the request from the Afghan side, India will provide further material support in the first instance to the health sector and for the rehabilitation of refugees,” it added.

The Afghan side also expressed awareness of India’s security concerns. Both sides agreed to maintain regular communication and continue contacts at various levels, the ministry concluded.

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