Thumbs Up for Afghan-Indian Strategic Pact

The overwhelming welcome of Indian approaches and positive politics in Afghan affairs have brought the two nations far closer than what most critics would expect. They are close rather very close to signing a very important and historic document setting new milestones and benchmarks in the Afghan-Indian relationship.

man lwuFV 19968

Announcing the agreement between the two heads of state, Manmohan Singh while addressing a joint session of the Afghan parliament said that the two heads of states have agreed in principle to signing a strategic pact between the two nations based on "equality, mutual respect and focus on trade, agriculture, civil society and business between the two nations." Honoring the relationship Indian Premier said, "I have come to Afghanistan to renew the spirit of our brotherly ties, friendship and solidarity. This is the only agenda of Indians and India in Afghanistan. This is the agenda I have traveled with to Afghanistan."

Mr. Singh's speech received overwhelming welcome in Afghan parliament and Afghan public. Afghans see India as a friendly nation whose ties with Afghanistan are rooted in history. In return India has always adopted a pro-Afghan policy. The purpose of addressing the parliament according to Fawzia Sadaat, a member of the parliament, is to show to the world that "India believes in engaging with the Afghan nation". India has been a supporter of Afghanistan in all fronts and on all platforms. Being the strongest and most influential member of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) India's growing ties with Afghanistan is no less than a blessing of history upon this poor and powerless nation threatened by the direct influence of India's arch-rival, Pakistan.

Though welcomed all across Afghanistan, India's new initiatives to seek greater role in Afghanistan is seen critically as well. Analysts also believe that India's preserving its interest in Afghanistan. In addition, India is expanding its markets and influence at the same time. By engaging deeply in Afghanistan, India might be taking the political trap off Kashmir to Afghanistan to keep Pakistan busy in dirty game on Afghan soil and force it diplomatically to surrender the issue of Kashmir. Though Afghanistan and India are friendly nations but Afghanistan is a safer place for India to play against Pakistan.

However, the overwhelming majority believe that though it's clear that every nation has its own stake in Afghanistan, India has appeared with a friendly politics and one that engages the two nations and increase people to people contact with the fact that India is one of the favorite travel destinations of Afghans for medical treatments and tourism. On the other hand, Pakistani Premier's visit brought Kabul nothing but a wish list of demands including very sensitive issues while Indian Prime Minister brought with him to Afghanistan pledges of further assistance and friendly gestures that this poor nation needs the most.