New Delhi, Mar 23
Kabul has sought a greater role for India at all the forums discussing the peace process, Afghan Foreign Minister Haneef Atmar said here today. “India has legitimate interests in the peace and security of Afghanistan and we are seeking a greater role for India,” Atmar said at a press conference at the Indian Women’s Press Corps (IWPC) after wrapping up the official end of his engagements during his three-day visit here.“We are negotiating to make sure that Afghanistan does not become a safe haven for international terrorists who are keen to turn it not just in their battlefield but into a safe haven including, unfortunately against India as well. So, India has a role not just in Afghanistan but with other regional and international partners,” he underlined.Afghanistan, he said, welcomed all political measures that would reduce tensions between Pakistan and India and resolve their conflicts. “In our view, given the fact we are seeking peace ourselves, we consider it legitimate and necessary for both sides to talk,” Atmar added.Giving an insight into the talks, Atmar said progress had been good so far on the rules of procedure for the negotiations. But there has been no progress on three key aspects – an end to bloodshed, a political settlement consistent with aspirations of all parts of Afghanistan and regional and international peace guarantees for the peace agreement.
“Now we are hoping to talk on this as we haven’t been able to discuss it seriously in Doha. To complement that progress, there are discussions in Moscow, Turkey etc. Regardless of the venue, the issues will be these three-four that will provide the framework for the peace and stability.’’On his talks with the Indian leadership, Atmar said the focus was peace talks, economic cooperation and regional connectivity.The two sides did not touch upon India’s approach to the Taliban but both agree that any contact with the militants should be on the condition that it will serve the peace process. “We will continue to work with India on our trade and economic cooperation regardless of the peace process. It has been there for millennia and will be there. We will make sure it happens in a more efficient and beneficial manner,” he observed.
