INDIA-AFGHAN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP IN POST 9/11ERA: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

Afghanistan is located in the Middle of Asia and due to its important strategic location is also quoted as ―Heart of Asia‖ by a well reputed poet Alama Mohammad Iqbal in his poetry. This Strategic location of Afghanistan is always exploited by the Great powers of the time, be it the ‗Great game‘ between Russia and Britain in 19th century or the ‗Cold war‘ rivalry between America and Soviet Union in the 20th century. The latter has made Afghanistan a ‗battle ground‘ for their competition through proxy groups. Afghanistan and India had centuries old cultural and trade relations. India after its independence in 1947 has often helped Afghanistan. The 9/11 attack and its subsequent response by America changed the Afghan politics and install a new government. India gave hand to the new Afghan democratic government. After 2001, Indian aid to Afghanistan covers humanitarian assistance, big infrastructural projects, small development projects, education and capacity building. This opportunity of ‗Soft power‘ is best utilized by India and found respect in the people of Afghanistan. India and Afghanistan have also signed ―Strategic partnership agreement (SPA)‖—the agreement which post 2001 Afghan government has never signed with any state— on October 4, 2011, which will cover security cooperation, trade and economic ties, as well as social and cultural exchanges. Moreover, India wants access to Central Asian resources in order to fulfill its energy needs. The Turkmenistan Afghanistan- Pakistan- India (TAPI) pipeline and Chabahar Port are the best examples. Through all these postures, India wants to counter its archenemy Pakistan and decrease its influence in Afghanistan. There are many challenges to India in Afghanistan. The rise of Taliban, role of Pakistan and rise of China are the main challenges which India faces in relations with the current Afghan government.