In its first clear and official reference to the Taliban as a state actor, India acknowledged in a joint statement with Australia on Sunday that the group occupies “positions of power and authority across Afghanistan.”
This reference is a step forward for the diplomatic establishment, but fails to officially recognize the Taliban administration as the government of Afghanistan. Sources told The Indian Express that the formulation was reached on Sunday after “many debates and deliberations” over the past week after the Taliban announced their cabinet.
On Saturday, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar had described the Taliban as the “dispensation” in Kabul during his statements after the 2 + 2 talks with Australia that included Foreign and Defense Ministers.
The joint statement on Sunday said: “(The) ministers also expressed deep concern about the situation in Afghanistan. The ministers called on the Taliban to ensure a safe passage for foreign and Afghan citizens who want to leave the country.”
He said: “They reiterated the calls on those in positions of power and authority throughout Afghanistan to fulfill their commitments to combat terrorism and human rights, in accordance with UNSCR 2593.”
UN Security Council Resolution 2593, issued on August 30 under the presidency of India for a month, stressed that Afghanistan should not allow its land to be used for related activities. with terrorism.
In another unusual move in India, the joint statement outlined reports of human rights violations. “They (the ministers) noted reports of a rapid decline in women’s and girls’ rights and access to public services and spaces, as well as of violence against women’s rights defenders. , ministers reiterated their call for the protection of the rights of women and children and their full participation in public life, “she said.
The statement sought “a broad and inclusive government” for “long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan.”
Marking concerns about terrorism, he said the two sides “agreed to remain vigilant about the broader repercussions of developments in Afghanistan for ongoing terrorist threats around the world and in our region.”
Aside from Jaishankar and Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, the 2 + 2 talks involved Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart Peter Dutton.