Russia has proposed adding India to the Afghanistan Quad, which currently includes China, Pakistan, and Iran, in order to strengthen collaboration on security and combat terrorism. This comes at a time when India is engaging more with the Taliban government. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov expressed confidence in this step during a recent briefing and emphasized the need for regional cooperation among SCO members.

Russia has proposed India’s inclusion in the existing Quad grouping on Afghanistan, which presently consists of China, Pakistan, Iran, and Russia. At a briefing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized the importance of strengthening trust within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and expressed confidence that India’s participation would be beneficial. The Afghanistan Quad last convened at a meeting attended by foreign ministers and a Pakistani defense minister, where they addressed crucial matters such as Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and concerns regarding terrorism.

During the meeting, terrorism was a central concern, with the joint statement highlighting the threats posed by the situation in Afghanistan. Notably, Lavrov categorized Pakistan as a “victim of terrorism” and advocated for collaborative efforts among SCO members, including India, to effectively combat terrorism and prevent the misuse of Afghanistan, Central Asia, and Pakistan for criminal operations.

The Russian minister’s remarks hold particular significance as India has increased its interactions with the Taliban regime, with recent discussions focusing on issues such as the Chabahar port and humanitarian assistance. Although New Delhi has not formally recognized the Taliban, it has engaged with the Afghan government through various diplomatic channels since 2022. India first participated in discussions with the Taliban in 2018 during the Moscow Format on Afghanistan.

The discussion regarding the Quad grouping on Afghanistan reflects the complex geopolitical landscape in the region, especially in the wake of the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. The SCO’s Afghanistan Contact Group had included India previously, but its activities have waned post-2021. India’s evolving stance towards the Taliban and increased diplomatic engagement signifies a shift in its foreign policy in relation to Afghanistan and the broader regional dynamics.

In summary, the inclusion of India in the Afghanistan Quad has been advocated by Russia, presenting an opportunity to fortify regional cooperation against terrorism. Lavrov’s comments underline the importance of collective efforts among neighboring countries to ensure stability. As India enhances its engagement with the Taliban regime, the dynamics of the Afghanistan situation continue to evolve amid ongoing regional challenges.

Original Source: www.wionews.com

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