Explorer

'Keep Wagah Border Open For Vital Trade': Afghanistan Urges India, Pakistan

When asked about US President Trump’s threat to retake Afghanistan’s Bagram airbase, Muttaqi stated: “In history, the people of Afghanistan never accepted the military of foreign countries."

Show Quick Read
Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom

Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi today called on India and Pakistan to keep the Wagah border open, emphasising its importance for trade between Afghanistan and India. He stated, “We request India and Pakistan not to close the Wagah border as it will make it easier for Afghanistan to trade with India. Trade and business are separate from politics, and such connectivity will benefit the people.” Muttaqi’s comments highlight the significance of cross‑border trade for regional economic stability and underline Afghanistan’s interest in maintaining strong commercial links with India despite broader political tensions.

Muttaqi’s Message to Trump

When asked about US President Trump’s threat to retake Afghanistan’s Bagram airbase, Muttaqi stated: “In history, the people of Afghanistan never accepted the military of foreign countries, and we will never accept it. We are a free and proud nation. If you want to have a relationship with us, establish a diplomatic mission, but we won't accept anyone else in military uniform on our soil.”

Key Jaishankar-Muttaqi Meeting

The discussions in New Delhi also touched on security, humanitarian aid, and economic cooperation. Muttaqi’s emphasis on keeping trade separate from politics aligns with India’s broader interest in supporting Afghanistan’s development while maintaining regional stability. During the meeting, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the importance of in-person dialogue, stating that such meetings allow both sides to “exchange perspectives, identify common interests and forge closer cooperation.” He also announced the upgrading of India’s technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy, underlining India’s commitment to maintaining a diplomatic presence and contributing to Afghanistan’s development.

The two leaders also discussed opportunities for Indian businesses, particularly in sectors such as mining, trade, education, and humanitarian aid. Jaishankar noted that these initiatives would be pursued through constructive dialogue and close cooperation, emphasising India’s pragmatic approach to engagement with Afghanistan. Analysts say that the meeting reflects a balancing act, addressing security concerns, fostering economic ties, and navigating complex regional dynamics involving China and Pakistan.

 

About the author ABP Live News

ABP Live News delivers round-the-clock coverage of India and the world, tracking politics, policy, governance, crime, courts and breaking developments, while offering sharp, verified reporting that helps readers stay informed, aware and connected to the stories shaping public life.

Read More

Top Headlines

‘If They Don’t Make A Deal, I’ll Blow Everything Up’: Trump Sets Tuesday 8 PM ET Deadline For Iran
Trump Sets Tuesday 8 PM ET Deadline For Iran After ‘I’ll Blow Everything Up’ Warning
France Sees Anti-Racism Rally As New Mayor Bally Bagayoko Faces Attacks
France Sees Anti-Racism Rally As New Mayor Bally Bagayoko Faces Attacks
Iran Shares Khamenei’s 1980 Image At Wreckage Of US Aircraft, Says ‘History Repeats Itself'
Iran Responds To Trump, Shares Khamenei’s 1980 Image At US Aircraft Wreckage Site
Rs 10 Lakh Cover: Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna Expands Affordable Healthcare Access
Rs 10 Lakh Cover: Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna Expands Affordable Healthcare Access

Videos

Breaking News: US “Mission Impossible” in Iran Amid Drone Clash and Missile Escalation
High-Risk Operation: US “Mission Impossible” Rescue: Downed F-15 Pilot Saved from Iran
Assam Elections: Rahul Gandhi Targets PM Modi, Amit Shah, and Assam CM in Fiery Election Speech
Middle East conflict: Iran Strikes Bahrain, Kuwait, and Israel as Middle East Conflict Intensifies
US-Iran Tensions: Trump Issues Final Ultimatum to Iran as War Tensions Reach Critical Point

Photo Gallery

25°C
New Delhi
Rain: 100mm
Humidity: 97%
Wind: WNW 47km/h
See Today's Weather
powered by
Accu Weather
Embed widget