Will protect Chabahar; Hindu, Sikh rights guaranteed, says Taliban spokesman to WION 

In a rare interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid talked about the future of Afghanistan as well Hindus and Sikhs if they come back to power. He added that he wants a cordial relationship with all neighbouring countries and added, "I'll protect Chabahar as it's positive for Afghanistan''. Edited excerpts  

WION: Do you think American forces will leave Afghanistan and when is your next meeting with the US? 

Zabihullah Mujahid: From the initial agreement we have reached with the United States, they seem to have shown readiness to leave Afghanistan and put an end to their occupation. A meeting to complete will be held on February 25, 2019.

WION: What kind of role Pakistan is playing in your talks with the US? 

Zabihullah Mujahid: Our talks with the United States are between us and the Americans, no one else is involved in it.

WION: How do you see India's role in Afghanistan? India is helping in developing a lot of infrastructure projects. 

Zabihullah Mujahid: Afghanistan wants good relations with all its neighbouring and regional countries. As the representatives of the people of Afghanistan, we want to see healthy and positive role of all countries in Afghanistan based on the needs of the people of our homeland.

WION: How do you see Chabahar port and future of the port? 

Zabihullah Mujahid: We value all economic projects and are committed to supporting and protecting all projects that are fruitful and positive for the prosperity and development of our country.

WION: If you come back to power how do you see the situation of Afghan Hindus and Sikhs? 

Zabihullah Mujahid: Afghan Hindus and Sikhs are our countrymen. Just as all Afghans have rights in this country, our Hindu and Sikh countrymen will have their own rights that shall be guaranteed.