India announces new healthcare projects for Afghanistan, gifts 20 ambulances during Taliban minister’s visit
India has unveiled a series of healthcare initiatives for Afghanistan, including the establishment of a Thalassemia centre and a modern diagnostic facility in Kabul, as well as the replacement of the heating system at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health (IGICH). The announcement coincides with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India from October 9-16, marking the first high-level delegation from Kabul since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, reports 24brussels.
The projects also include a new 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, an Oncology Centre, a Trauma Centre, and five Maternity Health Clinics across Paktika, Khost, and Paktia provinces. In a significant gesture, India has donated 20 ambulances to enhance emergency medical services in the country. Additionally, India will continue to provide scholarships under the e-ICCR scheme for Afghan students.
Muttaqi highlighted the establishment of a trade committee aimed at bolstering economic cooperation, stating, “Both sides agreed to create a trade committee. Due to opportunities opened in Afghanistan in terms of investment, and activities in minerals and energy, we invited the Indian side to explore work in these areas.”
Earlier this year, India’s special envoy to Afghanistan, Anand Prakash, visited Kabul for talks on political and trade relations, paving the way for this high-profile engagement. During his discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Muttaqi emphasized a wide array of topics including regional security and economic collaboration. “EAM pledged to broaden health activities in Afghanistan, and we appreciate the assistance provided for the victims of the earthquake,” he added.
In a move to strengthen diplomatic ties, Jaishankar announced plans to upgrade India’s representation in Kabul to an embassy, which had been closed following the Taliban’s takeover. The strengthening of the air freight corridor was also mentioned as a vital step in enhancing trade relations. Following a bilateral meeting, Jaishankar handed over five ambulances as a gesture of goodwill to the Afghan Foreign Minister, part of the overall donation of 20 ambulances and additional medical equipment aimed at supporting the Afghan populace.
As relations evolve, India maintains a vested interest in Afghanistan’s development and stability, reaffirming its commitment to assist the Afghan people during this transformative period.
