Taliban Foreign Minister Visits India, Boosting Diplomatic Ties

New Delhi, India — Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has arrived in India for an unprecedented eight-day visit aimed at discussing diplomatic, trade, and economic relations. This marks the Taliban’s highest-level visit since they regained power in 2021.

Muttaqi’s trip, which includes meetings with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and business community representatives, signals a significant shift in India’s approach toward Afghanistan. Following their meeting, Jaishankar announced that India would reopen its embassy in Kabul, which had been shut for four years.

This visit is significant as India seeks to strengthen its Afghan policy amid deteriorating relations with Pakistan, a long-time ally of the Taliban. The meeting follows close observation from Islamabad, which has historically monitored India’s engagements with Afghanistan.

As he landed in Delhi from Russia, the only country that officially recognizes the Taliban government, Muttaqi emphasized that closer cooperation would benefit both nations. He referred to India as a ‘close friend’ and expressed hope that his visit would enhance bilateral relations.

Indian officials, aware of the complex dynamics in the region, view this development as a pragmatic move. Analysts suggest that the Taliban’s engagement with India allows them to showcase a degree of independence from Pakistan.

However, not all reactions to the visit are positive. The Afghan delegation’s gender dynamics sparked controversy after women journalists were reportedly excluded from a press event. This prompted backlash from various political figures and media organizations in India.

Muttaqi later addressed these concerns in a follow-up press conference, emphasizing the importance of women’s education while facing criticism for the Taliban’s restrictions imposed since 2021.

Despite reaffirming the Taliban’s claims about supporting education for women, many journalists and observers remain skeptical about actual changes on the ground, noting that women have faced increasing limitations under Taliban rule.

With India and the Taliban working towards a shared interest in regional stability, both sides remain cautious, aware of past tensions and ongoing political challenges. This visit may represent a new chapter, indicating a tactical shift in diplomatic relationships in South Asia.