India has reaffirmed its commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal spoke at a press briefing on Thursday. He stressed that India supports Afghanistan’s independent decision-making and territorial control. This statement comes amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have worsened in recent weeks due to border clashes and mutual accusations. Islamabad accuses Kabul of allowing the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to operate from Afghan soil. The Taliban deny these allegations. A temporary ceasefire was reached, followed by talks in Turkiye, but they failed to produce a lasting solution.
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Jaiswal responded to questions regarding Pakistan’s claims about Indian involvement in Afghan proxy groups. He said Pakistan opposes Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its territory. “India stands by Afghanistan’s independence and rejects cross-border terrorism,” he added. The spokesperson emphasized that Pakistan cannot act with impunity against its neighbors.
India also highlighted its ongoing support for Afghan development projects. Jaiswal mentioned water management and hydroelectric initiatives discussed during Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India. He stated that India remains ready to assist Afghanistan in sustainable development. These projects are part of broader cooperation between the two nations.
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Meanwhile, Pakistan continues to face security challenges. Attacks from Afghan territory on October 11 escalated hostilities. Subsequent border skirmishes and counter-strikes occurred. Talks in Doha and Istanbul aimed to create monitoring mechanisms, but they failed. Pakistan vowed to continue protecting its citizens against terrorism while negotiations remain ongoing.