Afghanistan Ambassador calls on Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje

Ambassador of Afghanistan to India Shaida Mohammad Abdali on Thursday met Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje during which the two talked about good relationship between the countries and laid stress on strengthening cultural ties.

Abdali, who called on Raje at her residence, also held discussions about the shared history and common threats of the two countries, according to an official release. The Ambassador explained how the process of re-construction is taking place in his country and thanked the Indian government for its support.

In the meeting, Raje laid stress upon strengthening the cultural ties for improving people to people contacts and said that with strong traditions in Sufism, Ajmer and Herat could very well be twin cities.

The Chief Minister said India looks forward to continue being a partner in Afghanistan's development and stressed that the cultural traditions of Afghanistan offered many lessons, the release said.

Raje enquired about the traditional crafts of Afghanistan, including carpets, rugs, semi-precious stones, cuisine, and said that these specialities offered unique opportunities for the country to develop its tourism industry.

They also agreed on the need for co-operation between Afghan and Indian businesses, skill development sector and cultural exchanges.

They agreed to put together a joint working group which could identify and explore sectors for partnership and co-operation, the release said.