Third Meeting of India-Central Asia Dialogue

• 21 Dec 2021

The 3rd meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue was held in New Delhi on 19^th December 2021 under the chairmanship of the External Affairs Minister of India.

Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Republic of Uzbekistan took part in the meeting.

Major Highlights

Peace and Trust Policy

• The Ministers importance of the outcome of the International Conference "Peace and Trust Policy - Basis of International Security, Stability and Development", held on December 11, 2021 in Ashgabat.
• The initiative of the President of Turkmenistan "Dialogue - guarantee of peace" and other proposals expressed during this Forum are needed to be practically implemented within the framework of international organizations.

International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)

• Emphasised on optimum usage of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as well as Ashgabat Agreement on International Transport and Transit Corridor to enhance connectivity between India and the Central Asian countries.

Chabahar Port

• Stressed on to include Chabahar Port within the framework of INSTC and strengthening of regional connectivity in Central and South Asia.

Afghanistan

• Discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and its impact on the region, following the Taliban's occupancy.
• The Ministers reiterated strong support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan while emphasizing the respect for sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and non-interference in its internal affairs.

International Solar Alliance (ISA)

• India highlighted the role of "International Solar Alliance (ISA)” initiative in collective, rapid and massive deployment of solar energy for effective implementation of the Paris Agreement.
• India also underlined the role of "Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)” in promoting disaster resilient infrastructure for reducing economic losses and improving the well-being of communities in the face of calamities.
• India looked forward to Central Asian countries joining the ISA and CDRI.

Terrorism

• Condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
• Called for early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

Permanent Membership of India at UNSC

• Central Asian countries reiterated support of their countries for permanent membership of India in an expanded and reformed UN Security Council.

Significance

• The holding of annual meetings of the India-Central Asia Dialogue is symbolic of the interest on the part of all member countries for greater engagement between them in a spirit of friendship, trust and mutual understanding.