Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in New Delhi on Thursday for an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and discussing regional issues.
In a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We look forward to engaging discussions with him on bilateral relations and regional issues.” Muttaqi is scheduled to remain in India until October 16.
During his visit, Muttaqi is expected to meet External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
The visit had been planned a few weeks ago but was delayed as Muttaqi initially did not receive a travel exemption from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Last week, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the UNSC Committee had granted the exemption, enabling Muttaqi’s travel to India.
“We have been having conversation with the interim government in Afghanistan. You would have seen the Telecon that had taken place some time back between External Affairs Minister and Foreign Minister Muttaqi. As also we’ve had conversation between the Joint Secretary in charge and his counterparts in the Afghan side. Recently, when the earthquake happened the same day we were able to transport relief material to Kunar province, and subsequently we sent more relief material via Chabahar. So you know, as I told you that we will keep you updated with the developments that will happen in regard to the visit”, Jaiswal said in a press briefing on October 3.
Humanitarian assistance and infrastructure development in Afghanistan are expected to be key points of discussion. Jaiswal noted India’s prompt response to the recent earthquake in Afghanistan, saying, “On the day of the earthquake, we were able to transport relief material to Kunar province, and subsequently sent more aid via Chabahar.”
–IANS