Moscow Format on Afghanistan: India attends 8th round in Moscow
Why in the news
India took part in the 8th round of the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan, held in the Russian capital on 6 October 2026, and restated its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and for its people.
Key facts
- Indian delegation: led by Vinay Kumar, India’s Ambassador to Russia, along with Dr M. Suresh Kumar, Joint Secretary (PAI) in the External Affairs Ministry.
- India’s position: backing for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and a continued commitment to the welfare of Afghans.
- Afghan side: Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was present.
- Guests: Belarus and Egypt joined the meeting.
- Cooperation: India also backed growing cooperation with Kabul on mutually beneficial terms and Afghanistan’s integration into the world economy.
- Sidelines: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held separate talks with Muttaqi.
About the Moscow Format
The Moscow Format is a regional consultation mechanism on Afghanistan created in 2017. Its members are:
| Region | Member countries |
|---|---|
| Host | Russia |
| South Asia | India, Pakistan |
| Central Asia | Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan |
| Others | China, Iran |
Exam angle
- Edition and venue: 8th round, Moscow, 6 October 2026.
- The format was set up in 2017 and has nine member countries including India.
- India’s representative: Ambassador Vinay Kumar.
- Afghan Foreign Minister: Amir Khan Muttaqi.