India Urges Pragmatic Taliban Engagement at UN, Condemns Cross-Border Terrorism

India has called for a nuanced international approach toward Afghanistan. The statement was made at a United Nations Security Council meeting this week. India’s ambassador condemned attacks on civilians and cricketers.This marks a continued shift in India’s diplomatic stance. It emphasizes development over isolation for the Taliban-led nation.

A Shift in Strategy and a Veiled Rebuke

India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, outlined the new position. He called for “pragmatic engagement with the Taliban.” This policy aims to incentivize positive actions from Afghanistan’s de facto rulers.Harish warned that a focus solely on punitive measures is counterproductive. He stated it leads to a stagnant ‘business as usual’ situation. According to Reuters, this reflects a broader reassessment among global powers.The ambassador’s speech included strong condemnations of regional terrorism. He cited groups like ISIL, Al Qaida, and their affiliates. The mention of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed was a clear reference to Pakistan-based militants.Harish also denounced “trade and transit terrorism.” This phrase criticizes border closures that hurt Afghanistan’s land-locked economy. He called these acts a violation of international law and WTO norms.

Rebuilding Ties and Development Priorities

This diplomatic push aligns with recent concrete steps by India. The country has upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy. This move followed a visit to New Delhi by a senior Taliban minister last October.India’s strategy prioritizes humanitarian and development assistance. The nation has over 500 development projects across Afghanistan’s provinces. Future cooperation will focus on health, food security, and education.The international community is urged to adopt coordinated, nuanced policies. The goal is to deliver sustainable benefits for the Afghan people. India vows to continue working with all stakeholders in the region.

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India’s call for pragmatic Taliban engagement at the UN signals a strategic, development-focused path forward. This approach seeks stability while firmly addressing security threats from across the border.

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What does “pragmatic engagement with the Taliban” mean?

It means the international community should use incentives, not just punishments, to influence Taliban actions. The goal is to encourage positive behavior on human rights and security through dialogue and aid, rather than complete isolation.

Why did India recently upgrade its mission in Kabul?

India restored its technical mission to embassy status to deepen engagement. This followed high-level talks and underscores a commitment to Afghanistan’s development and humanitarian needs, despite not formally recognizing the Taliban government.

What is “trade and transit terrorism”?

This term criticizes the blocking of essential trade routes for a land-locked country. India argues that restricting Afghanistan’s access to ports and markets through neighboring countries acts as an economic weapon, harming ordinary citizens.

Which militant groups did India name at the UN?

India specifically named ISIL, Al Qaida, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The statement highlighted concerns about their continued cross-border operations, indirectly pointing to Pakistan-based militant infrastructure.

What are India’s main projects in Afghanistan?

India has historically funded infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and dams. Current priorities are working with UN agencies on immediate humanitarian needs, including food security and healthcare, while continuing capacity-building programs.