Afghan Foreign Minister’s India Visit Postponed
Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, was scheduled to visit India this month. However, the trip has been postponed because he hasn’t received the required travel waiver under UN Security Council sanctions. All leaders sanctioned by the UN, including those from the Taliban, must secure such waivers before international travel.
Historical Significance of the Proposed Visit
If it had proceeded, the visit would have marked the first Taliban ministerial trip to India since the group took control of Afghanistan in August 2021.
India’s Diplomatic Approach
India’s External Affairs Ministry refrained from confirming the visit but emphasized its longstanding support for the Afghan people. A ministry spokesperson affirmed that New Delhi remains in contact with Afghan authorities and will notify the public if there are any updates.
Background of Engagement
This proposed visit stemmed from a series of contacts between senior officials. Notably, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had a phone conversation with Muttaqi in May—the highest-level interaction since the Taliban’s rise. India still advocates for an inclusive Afghan government and insists Afghan territory should not be used for terror activities.
