Taliban Backs India on Kashmir, Pak Protests
Following a meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban expressed support for “India’s sovereignty over Jammu & Kashmir.”
Pakistan’s Reaction
Pakistan strongly rejected the Taliban’s backing of India’s claim over Kashmir. The Pakistani government termed the move as interference in its affairs and criticized the development as contrary to international norms.
Diplomatic Context
The endorsement came during diplomatic talks in which both India and Afghanistan affirmed respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This alignment has added strain to already tense relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, especially amidst recent border clashes.
Afghanistan’s Response to Pakistan
In response to the Pakistani backlash, Foreign Minister Muttaqi warned that Afghanistan has alternate options if Pakistan does not support regional peace initiatives.
Regional Implications
The episode underscores shifting alliances in South Asia, and has stirred debates on sovereignty, regional diplomacy, and Pakistan’s position regarding Kashmir.
