Russia, Iran and almost all Central Asian countries have confirmed their participation in a regional security dialogue on Afghanistan, which will be hosted by India on November 10, official sources said on Friday.
He said the media comment by Pakistan for not participating in the talks was unfortunate but not surprising and reflects Islamabad’s mindset of seeing Afghanistan as its “savior”.
Sources said Pakistan’s remarks against India in the matter is a failed attempt to divert attention from its “harmful role” in Afghanistan.
India is hosting the talks to discuss the overall security situation in Afghanistan after the Taliban seized power in the country.
The meeting will be held at the level of National Security Advisors of the participating countries. India’s NSA Ajit Doval will preside over the dialogue.
The earlier two meetings in this format have been held in Iran in September 2018 and December 2019, sources said, adding that the third meeting in India could not be held earlier due to the pandemic.
“There has been an overwhelming response to India’s invitation. Central Asian countries as well as Russia and Iran have also confirmed participation. The encouraging response is an expression of the importance attached to India’s role in regional efforts to promote peace and security in Afghanistan.
Sources said this is the first time that all Central Asian countries and not just Afghanistan’s immediate land neighbors are participating in this format.
He said that China and Pakistan have also been invited for talks and a formal response is awaited.
“However, Pakistan has indicated through the media that it will not be involved. Pakistan’s decision is unfortunate but not shocking. This reflects his mentality to see Afghanistan as his protector.
“Pakistan has not participated in the previous meetings of this format. His media comments against India are a failed attempt to divert attention from his deadly role in Afghanistan.
Sources said the high-level participation in next week’s meeting hosted by India reflects the wider and growing concern of regional countries about the situation in Afghanistan and their willingness to consult and coordinate with each other.
He said that India has an important role in this process.
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