New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced on Friday India’s dedication to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan, revealing plans to elevate the country’s Technical Mission in Kabul to the level of an Embassy. He noted that the visit of Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India signifies a pivotal moment in enhancing bilateral relations and reaffirming the strong ties between the two nations.

During his initial remarks in the meeting with Muttaqi in New Delhi, EAM Jaishankar referred to previous discussions with the Afghan Foreign Minister following the Pahalgam attack and the earthquake in Kunar and Nangarhar.

He stated, "India is entirely devoted to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan. Closer collaboration between our nations aids in your national growth and promotes regional stability and resilience. To facilitate this, I am pleased to declare the transition of India’s Technical Mission in Kabul to the Embassy of India status."

He emphasized India’s interest in the development and progress of Afghanistan. EAM Jaishankar mentioned that he and Muttaqi could discuss the upkeep of completed projects and the necessary steps to finish others.

"As a neighboring country and a supporter of the Afghan populace, India deeply cares about your development and advancement. Today, I reiterate that our longstanding partnership, which has seen numerous Indian initiatives in Afghanistan, is revitalized. We can deliberate on the maintenance and repairs of existing projects as well as actions to complete those we have previously committed to. Furthermore, our teams can explore other developmental priorities for Afghanistan," he noted.

Highlighting India’s assistance to Afghanistan over the years, he added, "India has consistently supported the health security of Afghanistan, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are now prepared to undertake six new projects, which details will be shared after our discussions conclude. A donation of 20 ambulances is also a gesture of goodwill, and I would personally like to hand over 5 of these to you as a symbolic act."

"India will provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunization and cancer treatments. We have also supplied drug rehabilitation resources through UNODC and are ready to increase our efforts. As a first responder, Indian relief materials reached the earthquake sites within hours of the disaster last month. We aim to assist in reconstructing homes in the affected regions. Additionally, India has been a key provider of food aid to the Afghan people, with another shipment set to arrive in Kabul today," he remarked.

EAM Jaishankar voiced concern regarding the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees.

He stated, "The situation of forcibly repatriated Afghan refugees is a serious issue. Their dignity and means of livelihood are crucial. India is willing to assist in constructing homes for them and continue offering material support to restore their lives."

He noted that the two nations share a "productive history" of collaboration in water management and irrigation.

He further stated, "We acknowledge the Afghan side’s interest in advancing this cooperation and are ready to work together on the sustainable management of water resources. Your invitation to Indian firms to explore mining opportunities in Afghanistan is also greatly appreciated and can be further discussed."

EAM Jaishankar expressed that India and Afghanistan share a common interest in enhancing trade and commerce, expressing satisfaction over the increase in flights between Kabul and New Delhi. He announced that India will broaden opportunities for Afghan students to pursue education in Indian universities.

He said, "Our educational and capacity-building initiatives have long supported Afghan youth. We will expand possibilities for Afghan students to study at Indian universities. Sports also represent a long-standing connection, with the impressive emergence of Afghan cricket talent. India is eager to strengthen its support for Afghan cricket. As you may know, India introduced a new visa framework for Afghan individuals in April 2025, resulting in a higher number of visas being issued, including for medical, business, and educational categories."

"We share a mutual commitment to growth and prosperity, but these are jeopardized by the common threat of cross-border terrorism faced by both our nations. We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms. We appreciate your sensitivity towards India’s security concerns. Your solidarity with us following the Pahalgam terrorist incident was commendable," he concluded.