The untimely demise of Afghan Vice President Marshal Mohammad Qasim Fahim is a huge loss for India. The former military commander of the Northern Alliance played a significant role in ousting the Taliban from Afghanistan and later shaped the new political order that emerged under President Hamid Karzai. A powerful Tajik leader, he was instrumental in bringing the support of the northern warlords to the new regime.
Marshal Fahim's demise will surely have an impact on political developments in Afghanistan, especially as the US-led West draws down its combat forces in that country. Both the Afghan and the Western leadership were looking to Mr Fahim to continue in his role as peace-maker, especially during this critical transition time in Afghanistan.The brave Marshal was also a great friend of India and he will be remembered for his tireless efforts in strengthening the India-Afghanistan strategic partnership.