NEW DELHI, August 18 – Afghanistan’s Chargé d’Affaires Noor Ahmad Noor has called for stronger political trust, economic partnership and sustained engagement between Afghanistan and India, saying closer ties would benefit both countries and contribute to regional stability.
Speaking at an event at the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi on Monday to mark five years since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul, Noor said stronger Afghanistan-India relations could enhance regional connectivity, economic growth and shared prosperity.
The event marked the fifth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power on August 15, 2021. It was reportedly the first such public event hosted by the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi since the Taliban takeover. India has not formally recognized the Taliban government.
Noor said Afghanistan’s foreign policy is based on balanced relations and non-interference, stressing that Kabul seeks positive, constructive, practical and sustainable relations with all countries.
He also highlighted growing diplomatic contacts between Afghanistan and India in recent years, including increased activities by embassies and consulates and visits by senior-level delegations. According to him, the two countries have developed constructive understanding in political, economic and humanitarian areas.
Recalling the long historical ties between the two countries, Noor said ancient Afghan cities such as Kabul, Herat and Kandahar had long welcomed Indian traders and caravans, while cities such as Delhi and Lahore were influenced by Afghan scholars, poets and Sufis.
He said the two countries had also influenced each other during their struggles against British colonial rule, adding that their shared history could serve as a foundation for building a better future.
The Afghan envoy urged India to support Afghanistan in protecting what he described as its legitimate rights and interests in the international arena. He also said a stable Afghanistan could create significant opportunities for economic growth, trade, energy cooperation and security across the region.
Anand Prakash, Joint Secretary in charge of the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, attended the New Delhi event.
Although New Delhi has yet to formally recognize the Taliban administration, Noor’s remarks signal Kabul’s continued efforts to deepen political and diplomatic engagement with India.
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