Sufism could bring Ajmer and Herat close

Jaipur, 13th November 2014: Meeting Shri Shaida Mohammad Abdali, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India, Chief Minister, Smt. Vasundhara Raje, mentioned that cultural ties are extremely important in improving people to people contacts. With strong traditions in Sufism, Ajmer and Herat could very well be twin cities.

Ambassador, Shri Abdali and Chief Minister, Smt. Raje, had an hour long meeting at her residence in Jaipur today, in course of which Ambassador Shri Abdali stressed upon the good relations between India and Afghanistan and deliberated on the shared history and common threats. Chief Minister reciprocated by mentioning that India looks forward to continue being a partner in Afghanistan’s development and stressed that the strong cultural traditions of Afghanistan, that offered many lessons to learn from.

The Ambassador explained how the process of re-construction is taking place in his country and expressed his thanks for the support from the Government of India. Chief Minister Smt. Raje enquired about the traditional crafts including carpets, rugs, semi-precious stones, cuisine and said that these areas offered unique opportunities for Afghanistan to develop their Tourism Industry.

Both dignitaries agreed on the need for co-operation between Afghan and Indian businesses, and in skill development and cultural exchanges. They agreed to put together a joint working group who could explore and identify sectors for partnerships and co-operation.