“Focus Must Be On Humanitarian Outcomes”: India asks UN to rethink Afghanistan Sanctions

India has urged the UN Security Council to review sanctions on Afghanistan, saying the current approach must reflect ground realities and support humanitarian and development-focused engagement with the Afghan people.

New Delhi: India has called for a reassessment of the United Nations sanctions regime on Afghanistan, arguing that the evolving political and humanitarian situation in the country requires a more flexible and practical international approach.

Speaking at a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session, India’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, said that global policy toward Afghanistan should be recalibrated to produce more constructive outcomes for its people.

India Calls for Policy Reassessment at UN

India stated that the existing sanctions framework may no longer fully reflect current realities in Afghanistan. It stressed that international efforts should focus on encouraging stability, development and humanitarian relief rather than measures that could further isolate the population.

Ambassador Harish said that a change in approach is necessary to ensure that sanctions policy aligns with developments on the ground and supports long-term regional stability.

Focus on Humanitarian Engagement

India highlighted that its engagement with Afghanistan remains centred on humanitarian assistance and development support. While it has not formally recognised the current Taliban-led administration, New Delhi has continued to maintain contact and expand aid operations.

According to India, its assistance includes food supplies, medical support and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving living conditions across Afghanistan.

Large-Scale Development Projects Ongoing

India informed the UNSC that more than 500 development projects are currently underway across all 34 provinces of Afghanistan. These initiatives span sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure and food security.

In addition, India has been supplying humanitarian aid including grains, vaccines, medicines and other essential supplies over recent years, often delivered through international organisations including United Nations agencies.

Emphasis on Stability and Regional Security

India underscored the importance of maintaining Afghanistan’s sovereignty amid ongoing regional instability and humanitarian challenges. It warned that continued economic and security pressures could worsen conditions for civilians unless balanced international engagement is pursued.

Ambassador Harish reiterated that sustained global involvement is necessary to address Afghanistan’s multiple challenges, including poverty, infrastructure gaps and security concerns.

Call for Constructive International Approach

India’s statement reflects its broader position that engagement, rather than isolation, is key to improving conditions in Afghanistan. It urged the international community to consider policies that prioritise humanitarian outcomes while supporting long-term regional stability.