India is ready to work with SCO on Afghanistan: MEA

New Delhi [India], Oct 12 (ANI): India has expressed its willingness to work closely with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states in efforts to bring peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan.

India has conveyed its decision to the just concluded SCO-Afghanistan 'Contact Group' in Moscow. This was the first meeting of the Group following the expansion of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in June 2017 with India becoming its full member.

The External Affairs Ministry said, "India has conveyed its readiness to work closely with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states in efforts to bring peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan."

Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Ruchi Ghanashyam led the Indian delegation to the meeting of SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group Meeting that was held in Moscow on October 11, 2017.

"The Indian side also stressed on the need for an Afghan- led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled national peace and reconciliation in an environment free of terror and violence, continued assistance for socio-economic development based on priorities of the people of Afghanistan, and ensuring greater connectivity and regional integration for Afghanistan," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said here while briefing to media.

We do not agree with Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's statement about no role of India in Afghanistan.

"Our position is very clear and consistent as we do not differentiate between good and bad Taliban. There are several forums for meetings on Afghanistan. We are members of some of them," Kumar said. (ANI)