MOSCOW FORMAT - INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

News: India joins Moscow talks for inclusive government in Kabul

What's in the news?

       India joined the latest meeting of the ‘Moscow format consultations on Afghanistan’ that was held in the Russian capital.

     “It is important that the world should not forget the situation in Afghanistan because today it’s not getting the attention that it deserves,” Mr. Jaishankar had said.

Moscow Format:

       The Moscow format, one of the several dialogue platforms on Afghanistan - which began before the Taliban takeover of Kabul. 

Members of Moscow Format:

       It consists of Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and India.

       Apart from the members of the Moscow format, Guests from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates were invited to take part in the discussion.

       India, Russia and Iran are expected to form a separate group within the format to discuss specific concerns regarding the security situation in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

Key takeaways:

       During the meeting, the participants discussed issues related to Afghanistan, including the current humanitarian situation and the ongoing efforts of various stakeholders to provide assistance, intra-Afghan talks, formation of an inclusive and representative government, efforts to counter threats of terrorism and ensuring regional security.