Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar in a meeting with Abdullah Abdullah, the head of the High Council of National Reconciliation, on Friday reiterated New Delhi’s longstanding cooperation with Afghanistan, saying India as a neighbor remains committed to peace and stability in Afghanistan. 

“A good discussion on our bilateral cooperation and regional issues. Welcomed his insights and perspectives on recent developments. As a neighbor, India remains committed to peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan,” said S. Jaishankar after meeting with Abdullah in New Delhi.

Abdullah said that India considers peace in Afghanistan in the interest of the entire region.

On negotiations in Doha, Abdullah said the talks provide a unique opportunity for peace in the country.

“We exchanged views on the Afghan peace process, bilateral relations and regional support for peace efforts," Abdullah said in a tweet, adding that Mr. Jaishankar assured him of India’s full support to peace in Afghanistan. 

Akram Khpulwak, the deputy head of the High Council for National Reconciliation in reference to a recent tweet by US president Donald Trump regarding the withdrawal of US forces said the presence of foreign forces cannot ensure peace in Afghanistan, adding that political guarantees by the international community will help to achieve lasting peace.

“Military presence is not bringing stability. Our political process can be guaranteed through solid international political guarantees,” said Akram Khpulwak, deputy head of HCNR.

“We call on all nations to take Afghanistan’s peace and stability as a regional benefit because conflict and bloodbath in the region is not in the interest of anyone,” said Zia Gul Rezayee, a member of the reconciliation council. 

What is now believed to be important for peace in Afghanistan is the conclusion of the peace talks in Doha and the establishment of a national and regional consensus to end violence and bring peace in the country.

Abdullah is expected to visit Iran, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan as part of his diplomatic efforts to garner regional support to the Afghan peace process.