Afghanistan Asserts Independence, Warns Pakistan Following India Medicine Deal

Kabul: Afghanistan has sent a strong message to Pakistan, asserting its sovereignty after finalizing a major medicine supply deal with India. Taliban Health Minister Noor Jalal stated that Afghanistan is not beholden to any country and will no longer tolerate external interference.

Following disruptions in trade with Pakistan, Afghanistan faced a severe shortage of medicines. Pakistan had reportedly used medical supplies as leverage to pressure the Taliban government. In response, Afghanistan signed a $100 million agreement with Indian pharmaceutical companies to import essential medicines. Minister Jalal emphasized that this partnership ensures the country’s health needs will be met and strengthens ties with international partners.

Speaking after inaugurating a 200-bed hospital in Kunar province, Jalal said, “Our neighbors are upset because we no longer depend on them. Afghanistan is free. Our people, who have made great sacrifices, will not accept subjugation. We will run our system and maintain our international relations, especially in healthcare, equipment, and medicines.”

Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Ghani Baradar also issued a stern warning to Pakistan at a commando graduation ceremony, emphasizing that Afghanistan will not tolerate violations of its territorial sovereignty. Without naming any country, he added, “Enemies should not test Afghan patience or covet our land. The Taliban government seeks cooperative relations with all nations, but any attack will be met with a firm response.”

The agreement with India comes at a time of escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Recent Pakistani airstrikes, including one that killed ten people, including nine children, have further strained relations. Afghanistan’s steps to diversify its medicine supply and strengthen international partnerships mark a significant move toward greater self-reliance and regional assertiveness.