Regional Dialogue of Secretaries of Security Councils on Afghanistan
Context:
Recently, the 6th Regional Dialogue of Secretaries of Security Councils/National Security Advisers (NSA) on Afghanistan convened in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
- India reaffirmed its commitment to a collective approach in counterterrorism efforts, aligning with the principles outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR 2593).
Relevance:
GS-02 (India and its neighbours)
Understanding the Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan:
- The Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan serves as a platform for high-level engagements among National Security Advisers (NSAs) or senior security officials from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, China, Russia, India, and other Central Asian states.
- These dialogues facilitate discussions and coordination on regional strategies to address security issues and foster stability in Afghanistan and surrounding areas.
- Aligned with the objectives of UNSCR 2593, the dialogue emphasizes preventing the use of Afghan territory for posing threats or launching attacks against any nation, as mandated by the United Nations Security Council.
Key Issues in India-Afghanistan Relations:
- Regional Stability Concerns: The illicit drug trade originating from Afghanistan, known as the golden crescent, remains a significant destabilizing factor, impacting Afghanistan and neighbouring nations like India.
- Impact on Indian Interests: India’s strategic interests and influence in the region have faced challenges, particularly after the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 1996.
- Economic and Infrastructural Obstacles: The recent Taliban resurgence in Afghanistan has hindered India’s efforts to develop infrastructure projects such as the Salma Dam and Parliament Building, along with investment ventures, due to security risks, corruption, and other hurdles.
- Security Threats to Indian Nationals: The attack on a Sikh gurdwara in Kabul, claimed by ISIS-K, has raised security concerns for India and its citizens.
- Shift in Security Dynamics: India’s security strategy in Afghanistan, previously reliant on a friendly government in Kabul and the presence of US forces, underwent a significant reassessment following the US withdrawal in August 2021.
