He expressed India’s “unwavering commitment” to support the efforts of the Afghanistan government to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic nation and emerge as an economically vibrant country. The two leaders reviewed the progress of the multi-faceted India-Afghanistan strategic partnership and expressed satisfaction at the increase in bilateral trade that has crossed the USD 1 billion mark.

During the meeting, the two countries also agreed to deepen their partnership in the areas of high impact projects in Afghanistan in the fields of infrastructure, human resources development and other capacity building projects. According to official sources here, Mr Ghani appreciated the decision of India and China to jointly work on projects and programmes in Afghanistan. The two Asian giants are planning to start their partnership in Afghanistan with a training programme for Afghan diplomats in October. Mr Modi, the sources said, also sought long-term business visas for Indian businessmen to boost bilateral trade. The India-backed Shahtoot dam that will be crucial for drinking water in Kabul also came up for discussions. “We hope we can move closer to its finalisation,” a source said. Among other issues that came up for discussion, it is learnt, are a low cost housing project in Nangarhar province, irrigation projects, polishing of gems, food processing and export of marbles to India.

During the meeting, Mr Modi expressed concern over the six Indian workers who were abducted in Afghanistan in May this year. Mr Ghani said he was personally monitoring the issue and assured Mr Modi of the workers’ safe release.