India Reaffirms Support for Afghanistan’s Sovereignty at Moscow Format Talks

India has reiterated its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity while stressing its continued commitment to the welfare of the Afghan people.
The position was conveyed during the 8th Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan, held in Moscow under Russia’s leadership. The Indian delegation was headed by Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar and Joint Secretary (PAI) Dr. M. Suresh Kumar.

Representatives from Russia, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan participated in the discussions. Afghanistan was represented by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, while Belarus and Egypt joined the meeting as guest participants.
The participating countries emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive engagement with Kabul on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. They also backed greater cooperation to help Afghanistan connect with the global economy.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the Moscow Format provides a platform for countries seeking mutually beneficial relations with Afghanistan. Established in 2017, the forum aims to contribute to peace, stability and national reconciliation in Afghanistan.
On the sidelines of the consultations, Lavrov also met Muttaqi to discuss bilateral ties and coordination on regional and international issues.