Indo–U.S. Joint Approach Toward Afghanistan
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By Arvind Thakur & Michael Padgett
February 26, 2019
Afghanistan has been in a state of perpetual conflict from within and from without for almost half a century. Internal conditions resemble the medieval times of the 14th century when unending wars were common, for example, the 100 Years War between England and France and the 30 Years War in Europe over religious interpretations between Catholics and Protestants. The result of Afghanistan’s 40 years of war is a rating at the bottom of the world’s economic and HDI indicators.
Many external players and political contradictions within Afghanistan prevent a more stable climate. Many countries like India and the U.S. have political, security and economic interests in Afghanistan. These interests are threatened by the instability in Afghanistan and burgeoning alliances taking shape in the region. India would be happy to have traditional cultural and economic relations with Afghanistan and revive the age-old Kabuliwalla bonhomie. Many confabulations and dialogues by groups of countries led by the U.S., Russia, China and the UN orient on a long-term Afghanistan that serves their long-term interests. The Great Game, use of Afghanistan as a geographic medium between great conflicting powers, is still being played out in Afghanistan. Only the players are different.
https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2019/02/26/indo_-_us_joint_approach_toward_afghanistan_114214.html
