Delivered India’s statement at the UNSC meeting on the situation in Afghanistan. Made the following 10 points:
- India’s history of close ties with contiguous neighbour, Afghanistan, guides us today, in a situation when the proud Afghan people need world’s assistance.
- With more than 500 development partnership projects across all 34 provinces, India is deepening engagement in healthcare, public infrastructure and capacity building.
- We are making significant progress in healthcare support. In last 3 months, 1 million doses of immunization vaccines and 9.5 tons of anti-cancer medicines have been delivered. Other areas include food security, counter narcotics and earthquake relief and education, for both men and women.
- Afghanistan Cricket team has been winning hearts wherever they have been playing. Their passion in #ICCWorldCup2026 was notable. India is proud to be part of their journey.
- We note the dire humanitarian concerns mentioned in UNSG’s report due to the unprecedented scale and pace of forced and involuntary returns under adverse circumstances. We call on member states to uphold their international obligations, including the principle of non-refoulement.
- India reiterates UNSG’s deep concern at civilian casualties caused by cross-border violence and strongly condemns airstrikes which are flagrant violations of international law, UN Charter and state sovereignty. It is hypocritical to espouse high principles of international law and Islamic solidarity while mercilessly carrying out airstrikes during the holy month of Ramadan, killing civilians a majority of whom are women and children.
- India reiterates grave concern on “trade and transit terrorism” and these vulnerabilities of Land-Locked Developing Countries should not be weaponized.
- Only coordinated efforts of international community would ensure that ISIL/Al-Qaeda and their affiliates including Lashkar -e-Taiba and Jaish -e-Mohammed and proxies such as The Resistance Front, along with those who facilitate their operations, no longer indulge in cross-border terrorism.
- India reiterates importance of incentivizing positive actions. International community should shun business as usual approach and adopt nimble policy instruments.
- India will always stand for priorities and aspirations of Afghan society and support the people of Afghanistan.
: Parvathaneni Harish
Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations