"India is a Second Home for Afghans, Like Long-Lost Brothers": Afghanistan Health Minister at PHDCCI Session

New Delhi, December 20, 2025: A vibrant interactive session hosted by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) brought together a high-level business delegation from Afghanistan, led by Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, Minister of Public Health, Afghanistan. The event fostered meaningful dialogue on strengthening India-Afghanistan partnerships, particularly in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, underscoring the deep-rooted bonds between the two nations.
In his opening address, Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, Minister of Public Health, Afghanistan, underscored a hopeful picture of Afghanistan's journey, “Afghanistan has endured a long period of uncertainty; however, today the country is moving towards peace and working steadily towards prosperity. India has always been a second home for Afghans, and we truly believe that Indian nationals are like our long-lost brothers.” He highlighted the pharmaceutical sector as a key focus of the visit, noting that Afghanistan's market relies heavily on supplies from India, Bangladesh, and Central Asian countries, but faces challenges from substandard imports.
Emphasizing public health priorities, the Minister called for unwavering commitment to quality, stating, “One of our constant concerns is of fake or low-quality pharmaceutical products entering Afghanistan, that compromises public health. During our interactions with other countries, it has been strongly emphasized that access to high-quality medicines is essential for building a healthier nation. Suppliers dealing in substandard or counterfeit products should be strictly banned, as quality and trust must remain paramount in the pharmaceutical trade.”
Dr. Ruchi Srivastava, General Manager, Multani Pharmaceuticals Ltd., outlined PHDCCI’s proactive efforts in bridging industry and government. She said, “The Chamber has been actively working to promote industry and investment, not only within India but also through close engagement with embassies, industry sectors, business delegations, policy dialogues, with the motive of strengthening partnerships between industry and government. We have shared a close and constructive relationship with Afghanistan, particularly in building long-standing trade and investment linkages. Today’s interaction further consolidates this momentum and opens new avenues for engagement. It is especially meaningful as it focuses on healthcare and wellness - an area where India has much to offer, particularly through the AYUSH sector, homeopathy, and traditional herbal medicine, which are affordable, natural, and globally relevant.”
Dr. Manish Chauhan, Group Head, International Patient Services, Metro Cancer Institute, extended a warm welcome and highlighted specialized expertise, “I welcome you on behalf of the Metropolitan Hospital. Your focus is on cancer patients. Our hospital is the best hospital for cancer patients. We are ready to help you in treating cancer.” He expressed gratitude to PHDCCI for the platform and recalled the delegation's recent hospital visit, signaling readiness for hands-on collaboration.
Karan Yadav, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of India, Afghanistan, expressed about actionable steps forward, listing affordability, quality, a robust supply chain, and trust as pillars of success. He added, “We should do as much as we can for the Afghans. Because they are our brothers. We have been in contact with them for centuries. Even today, if you give the name of Hindustan to anyone in Afghanistan, you will see their hospitality. As soon as they hear the name Hindustan, everything opens up for them. We should take advantage of this opportunity.”
Dr. Ranjit Singh, Chair, Taskforce-Paints and Coatings, PHDCCI, conveyed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the chamber. He appreciated the Minister’s “insightful address, which highlighted opportunities for cooperation between India and Afghanistan,” along with contributions from embassy officials, Multani Pharmaceuticals, Metro Cancer Institute, and all participants. “I express my deep appreciation to His Excellency. Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali for offering this session with his presence,” he said, crediting the collective effort for advancing bilateral engagement.
Abhishek Banwara, Senior Secretary, International Affairs, PHDCCI, emphasized the vital role of fostering robust bilateral relations between Afghanistan and India, underscoring how strong economic ties drive mutual growth and prosperity. He highlighted PHDCCI's ongoing efforts in various forums to enhance trade, investment cooperation, and overall economic development, noting that these international collaborations not only strengthen economic bonds but also deepen broader diplomatic ties between the two nations. "Through platforms like today's session, we are building bridges that benefit both peoples for generations to come," Banwara added.
This gathering not only celebrated centuries-old ties but also charted a path for sustainable healthcare cooperation, from quality pharmaceuticals to advanced treatments and traditional wellness solutions. It reflects PHDCCI’s ongoing commitment to nurturing trade bridges that benefit both nations' people.