NEW DELHI: Afghanistan’s UN-sanctioned foreign minister arrived in India on Thursday, marking the first visit by a senior Taliban leader since the group’s return to power in 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led forces.
Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit, made possible after the UN Security Council granted him a travel waiver, is expected to draw close attention from Pakistan as New Delhi deepens its engagement with the Taliban government.
“We look forward to engaging discussions with him on bilateral relations and regional issues,” Indian Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement, extending a “warm welcome” to Muttaqi.
Muttaqi, who previously met India’s top diplomat Vikram Misri in Dubai in January, is scheduled to hold talks with Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Although neither side has disclosed the agenda, analysts suggest trade and security are likely to dominate discussions — while India remains cautious about formally recognizing the Taliban government.
“New Delhi is eager to establish its influence in Kabul and not be left behind by its rivals, China and Pakistan,” said Praveen Donthi, an analyst with the International Crisis Group. He added that while the Taliban are seeking diplomatic recognition and legitimacy, that goal remains distant.
“India is not in a hurry to provide diplomatic recognition to the Taliban,” remarked Rakesh Sood, India’s former ambassador to Kabul.
India has long hosted tens of thousands of Afghans, including many who fled after the Taliban regained power. Afghanistan’s embassy in New Delhi closed in 2023, though consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad continue to offer limited services.
Also read: ANF seizes 231kg of narcotics in nationwide operations, five arrested
