New Delhi: Amid ongoing tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Afghanistan’s Acting Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, Mawlawi Ataullah Omari, praised India during his first official visit to the country, describing the bilateral relationship as deeply rooted and saying that India “feels like my own country.”

Speaking at the India–Afghanistan Business Opportunities Industry Interactive Session, organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in collaboration with India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Omari emphasized that the Afghan government is actively seeking international partnerships to accelerate the country’s economic development.

Expressing gratitude for the reception he received in New Delhi, Omari said:

“This is my first visit to India. From the very first day I arrived, I have received a very warm welcome from the Government of India, the Ministry of External Affairs, and everyone I have met.”

He added:

“I feel as though I am among my own people. It feels like my own country. As you said, we share the same DNA.”

Omari’s remarks highlighted the historical and cultural ties between India and Afghanistan and underscored Kabul’s interest in strengthening economic and diplomatic engagement with New Delhi.

His comments come at a time when relations between Kabul and Islamabad remain strained, with cross-border tensions and security incidents contributing to a deterioration in diplomatic ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The visit is seen as part of Afghanistan’s broader effort to expand regional economic cooperation and attract international investment as the country seeks to rebuild its economy.