India reaffirmed its commitment to support Afghanistan in sustainable water management, describing the Salma Dam as a “perfect example” of the enduring cooperation between the two countries, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

During his weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal referred to the recent visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi to India, where both nations agreed to strengthen collaboration on hydroelectric and water resource projects.

“The joint statement clearly emphasizes that India stands ready to support all efforts of Afghanistan directed towards sustainable management of water resources, including hydro-electric projects,” Jaiswal said. “The Salma Dam, also known as the India-Afghanistan Friendship Dam, is a perfect example of this cooperation.”

His remarks come amid Kabul’s announcement to construct new dams on the Kunar River, a move that has raised regional concerns, particularly in Pakistan. The Kunar River, known as the Chitral River in Pakistan, flows across northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan before merging with the Kabul River.

India and Afghanistan’s recent joint statement, issued after talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Muttaqi on October 10, underscored their shared focus on water sustainability and energy cooperation. The two sides also praised India’s role in constructing and maintaining the Salma Dam in Herat Province, which continues to serve as a symbol of bilateral friendship and development partnership.

The MEA reiterated that India remains committed to assisting Afghanistan’s energy and agricultural development through responsible water resource management and regional collaboration.