• Source:JND
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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar scripted history after he held a telephonic conversation with Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi on Thursday. The conversation comes after the Taliban administration, that India is yet to officially recognise, criticised the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22. This is also the highest level of contact between the Indian government and the Taliban and assumes importance after Pakistan said an Indian missile had hit Afghanistan. The claim, however was quickly denied by Kabul on May 10.

Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Good conversation with Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi this evening. Deeply appreciate his condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack."

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The post added, "Welcomed his firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports. Underlined our traditional friendship with the Afghan people and continuing support for their development needs. Discussed ways and means of taking cooperation forward."

The leaders from the two countries highlighted the importance of enhancing economic ties, with particular focus on developing the Chabahar Port, facilitating visas for Afghan traders and patients, and addressing the issue of Afghan prisoners in India.

Sharing a post on X, Consulate General of Afghanistan in Mumbai wrote, "The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, held a telephonic conversation with Dr. S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister of India. During the discussion, both sides exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations, promoting trade, and advancing diplomatic engagement.”

"FM Muttaqi referred to India as a key regional country and highlighted the historic nature of Afghanistan-India relations, expressing optimism that these ties will grow stronger. He also reiterated Afghanistan's commitment to a balanced foreign policy and the pursuit of constructive relations with all nations. In the conversation, FM Muttaqi requested facilitation in issuing visas for Afghan traders and patients, and called for the release and return of Afghan prisoners currently held in India," the post added.

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The post further said, "EAM Dr. Jaishankar echoed the view that India shares historic ties with Afghanistan and reaffirmed India's intention to continue its cooperation with the country. He underlined the importance of collaboration in political and economic spheres. Dr. Jaishankar also assured prompt attention to the issue of Afghan prisoners and pledged to streamline the visa process. Additionally, both sides emphasised on the development of the Chabahar Port."