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Taliban FM Arrives in Delhi for Six-Day Visit
Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in New Delhi on October 9 for a six-day trip, becoming the first senior Taliban leader to visit India since the group’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The External Affairs Ministry extended a “warm welcome,” marking a notable shift in India’s engagement strategy.
Travel Ban Waiver Granted
Muttaqi had been restricted under a UN travel ban, but a temporary exemption was approved last month, allowing his travel to India. His arrival follows regional meetings in Moscow, where multiple countries rejected U.S. proposals to re-establish military bases in Afghanistan.
Talks on Trade and Cooperation
During his visit, Muttaqi will meet Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and senior officials to discuss trade, consular issues, healthcare cooperation, and greater access for Afghan exports like dry fruits. He is also expected to explore port connectivity for boosting Afghan trade.
India’s Strategic Balance
India had closed its Kabul embassy after the Taliban takeover but later reopened a technical mission for limited functions. This visit does not signal official recognition of the Taliban government, but reflects India’s cautious step towards pragmatic engagement to safeguard regional interests and stability.
