Amir Khan Muttaqi Arrives in India for High-Level Talks
Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in India on Thursday for a week-long visit, marking the highest-level Taliban engagement with New Delhi since 2021. The visit, previously considered unimaginable, aims to discuss diplomatic, trade, and economic cooperation with Indian officials over an eight-day stay.
Following a meeting with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, India announced plans to reopen its embassy in Kabul, which had been closed when the Taliban regained power. The visit signals a strengthening of India-Afghanistan relations and is being closely observed by Pakistan, the Taliban’s traditional ally.
UN Sanctions Exemption Enables Visit
Muttaqi, who received a temporary exemption from UN sanctions to allow international travel, flew to Delhi from Russia, the only country to fully recognize the Taliban government. His trip reflects the Taliban’s deteriorating ties with Pakistan and its effort to establish independent international relations, including deeper engagement with India.
India-Taliban Diplomacy: Pragmatism Over History
Despite historically supporting the Western-backed Afghan government, India has adopted a pragmatic approach towards the Taliban. This visit underscores realpolitik, with both countries seeking to enhance diplomatic, political, and trade links.
During his first day in Delhi, Muttaqi met top Indian officials and emphasized that India is a “close friend”. He reaffirmed that the visit would strengthen bilateral ties.
Engagement with Business and Trade Communities
The Afghan delegation is scheduled to meet Indian business leaders to explore trade and investment opportunities. India continues to maintain a small mission in Kabul and provides humanitarian aid, reflecting its commitment to regional stability and development.
A Strategic Reset Amid Regional Rivalries
The visit comes amid worsening India-Pakistan relations and growing tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban government. Experts note that India’s engagement allows the Taliban to diversify its diplomatic relationships and reduce reliance on Pakistan.
According to Observer Research Foundation analysts, deeper ties with India also help the Taliban gain legitimacy domestically while signaling a shift in Afghanistan’s regional power dynamics.
Strategic affairs expert Brahma Chellaney describes the visit as a setback for Pakistan and a step toward de facto recognition of the Taliban government.
India’s Historical Approach and Gradual Re-engagement
In August 2021, India closed its embassy and consulates in Afghanistan as the Taliban regained power. Thousands of visas for Afghans were canceled due to security concerns.
By June 2022, India sent a technical team to Afghanistan to distribute humanitarian aid, gradually rebuilding trust and understanding. Since then, India has allowed Taliban envoys to open consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad and issued visas to Taliban officials and family members.
Over the past three years, high-level meetings have been held abroad, including a meeting between Muttaqi and India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Dubai in January 2025, highlighting India’s cautious yet strategic engagement.
Countering Influence: India vs. Pakistan in Afghanistan
India and Pakistan have historically vied for influence in Afghanistan, with India supporting Western-backed governments and Pakistan maintaining ties with the Taliban.
The Taliban’s current strained relationship with Pakistan allows India to expand its strategic footprint in Kabul, focusing on security, connectivity with Iran and Central Asia, and countering regional adversaries like China and Pakistan.
Muttaqi assured India that Afghan territory will not be used for attacks against India, addressing a major Indian security concern.
Cautious Engagement for Mutual Interests
While India and the Taliban are deepening ties, both sides remain cautious, keeping the relationship pragmatic and tactical. Past conflicts, domestic politics, and international considerations continue to influence engagement.
The visit reflects India’s strategic foresight in Afghanistan, balancing humanitarian, economic, and security priorities while positioning itself as a key regional player.
