America's Afghanistan strategy is once again in the global spotlight. Major Asian powers have united against its historical imperialism. As Donald Trump pushes for renewed American influence in Afghanistan and demands the Taliban return the Bagram Airbase to the U.S., India and other Asian nations have firmly opposed this move. In collaboration with Russia, China, Iran, and Central Asian countries, India has sent a clear message that Afghan soil will no longer become a military base for foreign powers.
On Tuesday, India, along with Russia, China, Iran, and seven other nations, opposed the establishment of any foreign military structures or infrastructure in Afghanistan. This stance comes after President Trump recently advised the Taliban regime to hand over the strategically significant Bagram Airbase back to America.
In the recent 'Moscow Format' discussions, these nations thoroughly deliberated on peace, stability, and development in Afghanistan. It was explicitly stated that the establishment of any foreign military structures in Afghanistan or its neighboring territories is 'not in the interest of regional peace and stability.'
Taliban's Foreign Minister Attends for the First Time
The Taliban government's Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, participated for the first time in this Moscow Format meeting. Weeks ago, Trump had commented that the Taliban should return the Bagram Airbase to America since it was originally constructed by them.
Call for United Action Against Terrorism
The participant countries emphasized the importance of bilateral and multilateral cooperation in combating terrorism. In their joint statement, they declared, 'Afghanistan must take comprehensive measures to eradicate terrorism swiftly to prevent its land from being used against neighboring countries or global security.'
India Advocates for an Independent and Stable Afghanistan
India was represented by Ambassador Vinay Kumar in the meeting. According to the Indian embassy, Vinay Kumar affirmed India's support for an independent, peaceful, and stable Afghanistan, ensuring social, economic development, and prosperity for the Afghan people.
He reiterated that a secure and stable Afghanistan is essential not only for the Afghan people but also for regional stability and global security. This step by India is seen as a calculated diplomatic message against President Trump's 'military expansion' policy.
Russia Offers Support to Afghanistan
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that despite the challenging global situation, the Afghan government is working towards stability. He noted that UN bodies have recognized a significant reduction in opium production areas in Afghanistan.
Lavrov promised that Russia would provide all possible support to Afghanistan in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized crime to help its people live peacefully.
Emphasis on Regional Engagement and Development
Russia, China, India, and other involved nations highlighted the necessity to strengthen Afghanistan's economic relations. They advocated for integrating Afghanistan actively into the regional connectivity framework to ensure substantial progress towards development and stability.
