Addressing the G 20 Leaders’ Summit on Afghanistan, PM Narendra Modi yet again underlined the need to ensure Afghan territory did not become a source of radicalisation and terrorism, regionally or globally, and also reiterated India’s call for an inclusive government that has women and minorities.
The Prime Minister also called for the immediate and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan as the country battles food and health crises. Modi participated virtually in the summit that was convened by Italy, which currently holds the G 20 presidency. The meeting focused on issues related to the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, terrorism and human rights. According to a statement issued by the Indian government, Modi emphasised the need to enhance the joint fight against the “nexus of radicalisation, terrorism and the smuggling of drugs and arms in the region”.
In order to preserve the socio-economic gains of the last 20 years and to restrict the spread of radical ideology, the PM called for an inclusive administration in Afghanistan, which includes women and minorities. Modi called on the international community to forge a unified international response without which, he said, it will be difficult to bring about the desired change in Afghanistan’s situation.
Modi also conveyed support for the important role of the UN in Afghanistan and called for renewed support of the G 20 for the message contained in UN Security Council Resolution 2593 on Afghanistan. India sees the August 30 resolution passed under its presidency as a template for international action in Afghanistan.
The resolution, among other things, calls upon the Taliban to not allow Afghanistan territory to be used against others. In his remarks, the Prime Minister welcomed the initiative of the Italian G 20 presidency in convening the meeting to take stock of the current situation in Afghanistan. He emphasised the centuries old people-to-people ties between India and Afghanistan.
