India Urges Global Action Against Terror Groups in Afghanistan

India has called on the global community to take action against terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) exploiting Afghan territory. India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, made this appeal during a UN Security Council meeting on Afghanistan.

Harish emphasized the necessity of international cooperation to ensure these UN-designated terror entities cease their operations in Afghanistan.

Monitoring the Security Landscape in Afghanistan

“India is closely monitoring the security situation in Afghanistan,” Harish stated on Wednesday, highlighting India’s vested interest in the region. He noted the need for the international community to coordinate efforts against terrorism.

In his remarks, he made a direct reference to Pakistan, calling out entities and individuals designated by the UN Security Council, including ISIL and Al Qaeda. The message was clear: the global community must act decisively.

India’s Unique Relationship with Afghanistan

India’s relationship with Afghanistan is built on a deep civilizational connection. Harish reiterated this bond, stating that India has a “paramount interest” in fostering peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The UN meeting served as a platform for India to express its commitment to constructive engagement with Afghanistan. Harish stressed the importance of international consensus on Afghan issues, pointing towards previous UN meetings where India participated actively.

Addressing Afghanistan’s Humanitarian Needs

In light of recent conflicts and natural disasters affecting Afghanistan, Harish urged for a more cohesive policy that blends positive incentives with actions to deter harmful behaviors. He argued that punitive measures alone will not yield desired outcomes.

“Focusing only on punitive measures is unlikely to meet desired results,” Harish remarked. “Afghanistan requires a fresh approach, utilizing previously untapped strategies to support its populace in dire need.”

Reflecting on the recent earthquake, Harish called for global compassion towards the Afghan people, who are enduring poverty, disease, and hunger. India was swift to respond, providing immediate humanitarian assistance including 1,000 family tents and 15 tonnes of food supplies.

Ongoing Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance

Moreover, India has dispatched additional relief materials such as essential medicines, hygiene kits, and blankets to affected provinces. “We are committed to extending our support to Afghanistan,” he stated, reinforcing India’s ongoing assistance since the Taliban took over in August 2021.

Since then, India has supplied Afghanistan with approximately 50,000 tonnes of wheat, over 330 tonnes of medicines, and more. This multifaceted support showcases India’s dedication to contributing meaningfully to Afghan welfare.

India’s efforts do not stop at immediate aid; they extend to long-term development initiatives as well. Partnering with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, India’s assistance includes essential support items for drug rehabilitation programs, especially those focused on empowering women.

“India’s commitment to meeting the developmental needs of the Afghan people is non-negotiable,” Harish declared, asserting that humanitarian aid and capacity-building initiatives in Afghanistan will remain top priorities.

Demonstrating this commitment, India has successfully executed over 500 development partnership projects across various Afghan provinces. “We will continue to engage with stakeholders and support the international community’s efforts for a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Afghanistan,” Harish concluded.