Portrait of Narendra Modi
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Narendra Modi on Afghanistan

Humanitarian supporter (strong)

Narendra Modi's position on Afghanistan centers on promoting sustainable peace, prosperity, and a region free from the threat of terrorism.

He has repeatedly called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, asserting that peace in Afghanistan is in the interest of the entire region.

India, under Modi, has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to the Afghan people, providing significant humanitarian aid and development assistance for various projects across the country.

Context

India, under Narendra Modi's premiership, has historically been a significant development partner for Afghanistan, particularly after the fall of the Taliban in 2001.

India's engagement is framed by its strategic security concerns, primarily the threat of cross-border terrorism and the need for regional stability, which directly impacts India's security environment.

Timeline

  1. Met with Abdullah Abdullah amidst the Intra-Afghan Dialogue in Doha, welcoming efforts towards a comprehensive ceasefire.
  2. Called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, stressing that violence is counterproductive to peace and assuring continued Indian support for the Afghan people.
  3. Engaged with global leaders, including Vladimir Putin and Angela Merkel, to discuss the Afghanistan crisis following the Taliban takeover, establishing consultation channels.
  4. Immediately offered full humanitarian aid and relief following a severe earthquake in Afghanistan.

Actions Taken

  1. Foreign Aid
    Pledged significant aid, reported as $900 million at one point, to Afghanistan to support development projects.
  2. Diplomacy
    Held a meeting with Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), to discuss the Intra-Afghan Dialogue and reiterated support for any peace agreement agreeable to the people of Afghanistan.
  3. Official Statement
    Called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Afghanistan while expressing concern over the targeting of innocent citizens, journalists, and activists.
  4. Bilateral Consultation
    Spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the evolving crisis in Afghanistan and agreed to establish a permanent channel for bilateral consultations on the developments.
  5. Disaster Relief
    Extended readiness to provide 'all possible humanitarian aid and relief' following a major earthquake in Afghanistan.

Key Quotes

We have called for an immediate end to the violence, and we immediately support a comprehensive ceasefire.

Virtual meeting with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani February 9, 2021 — Stating India's position on the escalating violence in Afghanistan.

I want to assure every Afghan brother and sister, from Badakhshan to Nimroz and Herat to Kandahar that India stands with you. At every step of your journey of patience, courage and determination, India will be with you.

Virtual meeting with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani February 9, 2021 — Reaffirming India's solidarity with the Afghan people.

Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan.

Social media post after a call with Vladimir Putin August 24, 2021 — Following the Taliban takeover in August 2021.

Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the earthquake in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families in this difficult hour, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to provide all possible humanitarian aid and relief to those affected.

Social media post September 1, 2025 — Expressing sorrow following the 2025 Afghanistan earthquake.

Comparison

Compared to the predecessor government, Modi has taken a more active, high-level diplomatic role concerning the Afghanistan peace process, highlighted by his personal meetings with Afghan leadership.

However, his commitment to development aid is a continuation of India's policy since 2001, which was initiated by previous administrations.