Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani inaugurated the new Afghan Parliament building which was built with assistance of India. They then preceded to Dilkosha Palace the Afghan presidential office, for the bilateral talks.
The Darul Aman Palace (Afghanistan’s old parliament), which was once one of most regal and metaphorical buildings of the country, was bombed by Taliban. India then promised to build the new parliament house as a mark of friendship and cooperation to help rebuild Afghanistan after the wars. Its foundation stone was laid by former PM Manmohan Singh in 2009.
India spent USD 90 million (710 crores approx) to construct the new parliament building. While its House of People, called Wolesi Jirga, can seat 256 members, the Upper House or Meshrano Jirga can accommodate 134 representatives.
Based on Mughal and modern styles of architecture, the building’s dome is one of largest among Asian parliaments. Narendra Modi also addressed the two houses, after the inauguration. Ghani and Modi toured the parliament building and arrived at the main session hall in the presence of the guests, including member of the Afghan parliament.