August 25, 1999
New Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee in a letter sent to the President of the Islamic State of Afghanistan condemned the brutal massacre of innocent people, torching of houses, use of incendiary bombs, destruction of crops and deliberate displacement of women and children perpetrated by the Taliban forces backed by Pakistan on the people and to all Afghans.

Prime Minister reiterated India's support for the unity sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and it's earnest desire that peace and stability be re-established in Afghanistan at the earliest and conviction that this would be possible only when Pakistan ceases its interference in Afghan affairs.

A copy of Prime Minister's letter

August 25, 1999

Excellency,

I am immensely sad to learn of the attrocities committed by the Taliban forces backed by Pakistan on the people of the Shomali plains. The brutal massacre of innocent people, the torching of houses, the use of incendiary bombs, the deliberate displacement of women and children, and the destruction of crops, constitute crimes against humanity. While condemning these, I am struck by the fact that they are totally contrary to Afghan traditions and reveal the doings of the foreign mentor of the Taliban. On our part we will continue to extend humanitarian assistance to these unfortunate people and to all Afghans.

India and Afghanistan share historic ties and close bonds of friendship, based on civilisational and cultural affinities. It is in keeping with this traditional relationship that India has always stood by the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan. It is our earnest desire that peace and stability be re-established in Afghanistan. That will be possible only when Pakistan ceases its interference in Afghan affairs.

I would like to assure you, Excellency of India's continued support to your Government.

(A.B. Vajpayee)

His Excellency
Prof. Burhanuddin Rabbani
President of the Islamic State of Afghanistan
Kabul.