India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj, has emphasized India’s “unwavering commitment” to the people of Afghanistan during her address to the UNSC regarding the ongoing situation in the country.
Kamboj voiced her concern for the situation in Afghanistan, emphasizing the significant repercussions of worsening humanitarian conditions, further aggravated by natural disasters such as the October 2023 earthquake that resulted in the loss of over 320 lives.
“The deteriorating humanitarian situation, compounded by natural disasters such as the earthquake of October 2023, has had a devastating impact on the lives of the people,” she said.
Kamboj urged the international community not to lose sight of Afghanistan amid these challenging times, as the nation grapples with issues like terrorism and natural disasters. She acknowledged the report submitted by Special Coordinator Feridun Sinirlioglu, mandated by UNSC Resolution 2679, and endorsed the recommendations contained in the report.
Affirming India’s commitment to actively engage with other partners, Kamboj stated, “As a longstanding partner to the Afghan people, India will continue to engage actively with other partners with the ultimate objective of securing peace and stability in the country.”
She emphasized India’s existing collaboration with various UN agencies on the ground and pledged to continue these efforts for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan. Kamboj highlighted the Security Council’s resolution 2593 benchmarks, guiding the international community’s approach toward Afghanistan. Common and immediate priorities include providing humanitarian assistance, forming an inclusive and representative government structure, combating terrorism and drug trafficking, and safeguarding the rights of women, children, and minorities.
This reaffirms India’s steadfast dedication to peace, stability, and humanitarian support for Afghanistan, as previously stated by Kamboj in September.