Q.4733 Indian role in Afghanistan

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether USA has mentioned that India can play very important role in war torn country Afghanistan that is now making a high push towards reconciliation by reintegrating erstwhile Taliban elements into the national mainstream;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether touted as largest gathering of foreigners in Afghanistan since 1970s, Kabul Conference will be attended by leaders from about 50 countries including US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and India’s External Affairs Minister;
(d) if so, the details thereof including the decisions taken therein; and
(e) the outcome of the conference and the extent to which India has decided to further improve its role in developing Afghanistan?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) & (b) The United States has acknowledged at the highest levels India’s positive role in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan.
(c) to (e) The ‘Kabul International Conference on Afghanistan’ was held on July 20, 2010 in Kabul. Shri S.M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister, led the Indian delegation for the Conference. The Conference was co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations. A ‘Kabul Conference Communiqué’ was issued at the conclusion of the Conference.

India and Afghanistan share rich historical and civilisational ties and a vibrant development partnership. During his visit, External Affairs Minister held constructive discussions with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan as well as Foreign Minister Zalmay Rassoul and National Security Advisor Rangin Dadfar Spanta. The Kabul Conference enabled India to reaffirm its strong support for and commitment to assisting the Government and people of Afghanistan in their development, and for a peaceful, stable Afghanistan.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220216483.

Lok Sabha