Ensure Afghanistan not used as haven for terrorists: India, US to Taliban

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, October 29

India and the US have called on the Taliban to ensure that Afghan territory is “never again used to threaten or attack any country, shelter or train terrorists, or plan or finance terrorist attacks”.

Both sides also committed to continuing close consultations on developments in Afghanistan and potential terrorist threats emanating from there. At the 18th meeting of the US-India Counter Terrorism JWG and the fourth session of the US-India Designations Dialogue held in Washington, the two sides also exchanged views on countering narco-terror networks and trans-national illegal weapons smuggling networks.

The Indian team was led by diplomat Mahaveer Singhvi and the US by its Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism John Godfrey.

The US reiterated its commitment to standing together with the people and government of India in the fight against terrorism, said a joint statement issued after the meetings.

Both sides also strongly condemned any use of terrorist proxies and cross-border terrorism and called for concerted action against groups proscribed by the UNSC such as al-Qaida, ISIS, LeT and JeM.

The delegations discussed ways to prevent the ability of international terrorists to travel and decided to further expand information sharing on terror threats.

US announces $144 million aid

Washington: The US will provide $144 million in assistance to the people of Afghanistan who have been facing a grave humanitarian crisis under the Taliban, Secretary of State Tony Blinken announced here. The assistance will be provided directly to independent international organisations following extensive vetting and monitoring. PTI