Jaishankar's Talks with Afghan Commerce Minister: India Seeks to Boost Trade Amid Rising Tensions
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In a bid to strengthen economic ties, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held crucial talks with Afghanistan's Industry and Commerce Minister Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi on Thursday. The visit, which comes amidst escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, marks India's efforts to bolster trade and investment cooperation with the war-torn nation. Azizi, who is on a five-day visit to India, led a delegation to the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, where they explored opportunities for future collaborations. The Indian government is keen on supporting Afghanistan's development and welfare, as reiterated by Jaishankar on social media. Key areas of focus include pharmaceuticals, textiles, machinery, and food items, which India exports to Afghanistan. On the other hand, Afghanistan imports agricultural products and minerals from India. This visit follows a previous meeting between the two nations, where India upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy after a visit by Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in October. The current border closures by Pakistan have disrupted Afghan exports, prompting the nation to look for alternative trade partners, including India. As tensions rise between Afghanistan and Pakistan, India's efforts to strengthen economic ties with Afghanistan assume significance.
