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| Edited By: |Source: DNA |Updated: Nov 10, 2018, 07:05 AM IST
Russia’s efforts to script a new narrative in Afghanistan by positioning itself as a key player have already hit a roadblock with India refusing to hold direct talks with the Taliban. Moscow has got representatives from Kabul and the militant group to initiate a dialogue.
India has restricted its participation to a “non-official level”, in keeping with its Afghanistan policy. Over the years, several countries aspiring to extend their influence in the region, have tried to court the Taliban. After the US and Nato burnt their fingers, China moved in, with reports suggesting that a concrete push, brokered by Pakistan, has been initiated by Beijing to engage with the Taliban.
Russia, a former coloniser, is now showcasing its return to the diplomatic forefront with an unprecedented peace conference. India has always backed initiatives that are “Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled and with participation of the government of Afghanistan”.
New Delhi wants Pakistan out of the Afghan equation because it is part of the problem. At the same time it doesn’t want to put boots on the ground because military engagement has yielded very little dividends for the US. And there is no denying the fact that lasting peace in Afghanistan cannot be achieved without the Taliban’s active participation.
In fact, the militant outfit in a statement said: “The [Moscow] meeting will discuss the end of American invasion, identify problems and deliberate on regional peace.” While traditionally, India has shared robust relations with Afghanistan, the former has preferred a wait and watch approach.
Moreover, New Delhi is also trying to balance its equations with both Russia and the US. A US-led peace initiative will be held in Geneva later this month.
