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Officials of Afghanistan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan were present, while a delegation from Belarus attended as guests
The joint statement highlighted that regional connectivity is the key to achieving a peaceful Afghanistan, ensuring that all member countries benefit from mutual cooperation. Image/X
The latest round of the Moscow Format consultations on Afghanistan concluded with a unified joint statement from member nations, emphatically ruling out any foreign military intervention and calling for a pivot toward economic stability and regional connectivity, CNN-News18 has learnt.
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The talks, which brought together key regional players, established a clear geopolitical red line: the attempts by countries to deploy their military infrastructure in Afghanistan and neighbouring states were deemed “unacceptable”, as such actions are seen as detrimental to regional peace and stability.
The meeting was held in Moscow at the level of special representatives and senior officials of Afghanistan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, while a delegation from Belarus attended as guests.
Strict Call for Counter-Terrorism Action
Security remained a paramount concern. The participating parties called for a significant strengthening of counter-terrorism cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels. They collectively stressed that Afghanistan must be fully supported to undertake “comprehensive measures” aimed at the “elimination of terrorism” within a short timeframe.
The joint statement unequivocally emphasised that Afghan soil must not be used as a threat to the security of neighbouring countries or the wider world, underscoring that terrorism remains a serious threat to the region and the globe.
Economic Ties and Depoliticised Aid
In a major policy emphasis, the members reiterated the need to strengthen ties with Afghanistan through focused initiatives in trade, commerce, and investment. The joint statement highlighted that regional connectivity is the key to achieving a peaceful Afghanistan, ensuring that all member countries benefit from mutual cooperation.
Furthermore, there was a concerted call for necessary humanitarian support to be delivered to the Afghan people, with a specific demand that this vital aid must not be politicised. The focus remains on channelling resources efficiently to vulnerable populations without external conditions that could impede delivery.
The consensus reflects a unified regional strategy moving forward: one based on non-interference, robust counter-terrorism measures, and long-term economic integration for stability.
About the Author
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
October 07, 2025, 20:01 IST
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