“India is looking for I would say solid engagement with the people of Afghanistan … the government of Afghanistan and that is the Taliban, it is a reality, we have to accept it, no one can dislodge it,” said Maj Gen Sanjay Meston (Retd), former defence adviser at the Indian Embassy in Kabul.
“Either India could be on the stands and watch the race or participate in the race and I am glad we have decided to participate in the race,” he said.
Gen Meston was a guest on The Gist, analysing India’s decision to send a high level delegation to Kabul last week, headed by the senior diplomat handling the Iran-Pak-Afghanistan desk in the External Affairs Ministry.
Although no country has recognised the Taliban regime including China and Russia, the embassies of both countries are functioning, as are the Iranian and Pakistani embassies, “and the US is also going to open shortly”, Meston pointed out.
In his view, the talks between the US and the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, will give the “terms of reference” as to the basis of the relationship. This could include an inclusive government in Kabul, women’s right to education and so on.
The Taliban is expected to make some effort in that direction including having some neutral faces in their government, and if the US finds it agreeable, they may well recognise it, which would enable India to do the same.
Gen Meston says India’s reasons for the outreach to Afghanistan are strategic. India can counter Pakistan from there, also China and seek to ensure Central Asia does not become Beijing’s playground.
The enemy’s enemy is my friend does work in this case, but India also has a relationship with Afghanistan that goes back in time.
While women have been marginalised by the Taliban, the fact is people are enjoying security for the first time in decades, there is zero corruption and the Taliban does not go with a begging bowl to anyone.
Tune in for more in this conversation with Maj Gen Sanjay Meston (Retd), former defence adviser at the Indian Embassy in Kabul.
