In a rare high-level meeting in New Delhi, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi called India a “close friend” and thanked it for being the first to respond after Afghanistan’s recent earthquake. Muttaqi said Kabul seeks “mutual respect, trade, and people-to-people ties” with India.

India has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to sustained food and medical assistance for Afghanistan, addressing the urgent humanitarian needs faced by the Afghan people. In a recent bilateral meeting, India emphasized the longstanding historical and cultural ties between the two nations, highlighting the importance of continued cooperation. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the upgrade of India’s technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy, signaling strengthened diplomatic engagement. India continues to support the Afghan population through critical medical assistance, including ambulances, CT scan and MRI equipment, enhancing healthcare services amidst ongoing crises. WATCH