India, Russia discuss Afghanistan amid US-Taliban talks and China-led efforts

NEW DELHI: India and Russia held bilateral negotiations here on Thursday for joint initiatives to stabilise Afghanistan amid US-Taliban reconciliation efforts and China-Pak-Afghan dialogue that hopes to extend BRI in the landlocked country.

Russian Special Envoy Zamir Kabulov held delegation level talks with Joint Secretary (PAI) in MEA Deepak Mittal. He later called on Foreign Secretary Mr Vijay Gokhale.

Both sides reiterated support for Afghan led and Afghan owned inclusive peace and reconciliation process.


The Russian side briefed on their efforts to support Afghan peace process through Moscow format of talks. India participated in the Moscow format of talks.

It was agreed to maintain regular bilateral consultations and coordination including in the context of international fora with the shared objective to promote peace, security, stability, unity and prosperity in Afghanistan.

It was also agreed to hold the next round of consultations in Moscow in 2019.