Afghanistan Crisis: Indian industry to extend full support to govt initiatives, says Assocham

In the wake of worsening security situation across Afghanistan, Industry body Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), on Wednesday said that the Indian leadership is best suited and capable of protecting Indians and playing a pragmatic role for peace, stability and progress in the region.

“Indian industry would extend full support to whatever initiatives are taken by our government with regard to the emerging situation in Afghanistan,” it said in a statement.

In the past also, it said, India had taken up several infrastructure projects in Afghanistan. Assocham would remain engaged with the government on the way forward, it added.

Investments in Infrastructure

India has invested about Rs 22,251 crore in Afghanistan in the last 20 years. During the last two decades, India has constructed about 218 km road between Delaram and Zaranj Salma Dam in Afghanistan. India has also built the Parliament of Afghanistan.

Hike in prices of dry fruits imported from Afghanistan

India is the largest market for Afghan products in South Asia. A large number of dry fruits in India come from Afghanistan. Ahead of the festivals, the price of dry fruits has increased in the country.

In India, dry fruits are imported in large quantities from Afghanistan. These dry fruits include pistachios, figs, walnut kernels, dried raisins, almonds and dried apricots, although asafoetida, watermelon, apple, cherry, pomegranate, saffron and cumin are also imported from this country.

India also exports black pepper, coconut, jute goods, wheat, tobacco, coffee, cardamom to Afghanistan.