New Delhi: All eyes are currently fixed on the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. Meanwhile, tensions had also flared up between Afghanistan and Pakistan just a few days ago. Relations between the Taliban government of Afghanistan and the Pakistani government have never been stable; differences persist not only between the two governments but also among the general public.
Compared to Pakistan, Afghanistan maintains much better relations with India. Afghanistan has now made a statement regarding India that is bound to irk Pakistan. At the same time, Afghanistan has expressed hope for strong future ties with India.
Afghanistan Praises India Highly
Despite the deeply strained relationship with Pakistan, Afghanistan’s Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, Maulvi Ataullah Omari, has openly praised the historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He remarked that India and Afghanistan share the same DNA. He further added that upon arriving in India, he felt as though he were in his own country and among his own people.
He addressed the ‘India-Afghanistan Trade Opportunities Industry Interactive Session’ organised under the aegis of the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. Omari mentioned that this was his first visit to India and noted that the respect and sense of belonging he received here truly won his heart.
India Extends a Warm Welcome
The Afghan minister stated that from the very first day of his arrival, he was welcomed with great enthusiasm by the Indian government, the Ministry of External Affairs, and everyone he met. He said, “I felt exactly as if I were in my own country.” He further added that their relationship is not merely diplomatic but rooted in shared history, culture, and civilisation; they even share the same DNA.
Afghan Minister Impressed by Indian Hospitality
The Afghan minister remarked that India’s hospitality has brought a new ray of hope for the people of Afghanistan. He added that the respect received in India also symbolises hope for a better future for the Afghan people. Approximately 80 per cent of their society relies on agriculture, irrigation, and animal husbandry. He said that the time has come to connect people with modern technology. Omari stated that Afghanistan seeks to enhance cooperation with various countries around the world for economic development.
Pakistanis are bound to be irked.
An Afghan minister has praised India at a time when tensions between Kabul and Islamabad are steadily rising due to border disputes, security issues, and political differences. In this context, Afghanistan’s growing closeness to India is considered highly significant in terms of regional politics. The fourth meeting of the India-Pakistan Joint Committee is also being held in the capital, Delhi, this week.
