May 16, 2025 | In a diplomatic first, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a direct phone conversation with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan’s Taliban-led administration. This marks India’s first high-level outreach to the Taliban since it seized control of Kabul in August 2021.
Condemnation of Pahalgam Terror Attack Sparks Engagement
The engagement comes shortly after the Taliban publicly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 civilians primarily tourists were killed by Pakistan-linked terrorists. Although India has not formally recognized the Taliban regime, this condemnation appears to have opened the door for deeper discussions.
Reaffirming Indo-Afghan Ties
Jaishankar emphasized India’s historic friendship with the Afghan people and reiterated New Delhi’s commitment to Afghanistan’s development. He also praised the Taliban’s rejection of what he called “false and baseless” media reports from Pakistan attempting to sow distrust between the two nations.
Key Issues Discussed: Visas, Trade & Prisoners
According to Taliban officials, Muttaqi requested increased Indian visas for Afghan citizens, especially for medical treatment. Other issues raised included bilateral trade, the release of Afghan prisoners in Indian jails, and accelerated cooperation over the Chabahar Port in Iran.
Chabahar Port Gains Strategic Importance
With direct trade routes via Pakistan shut due to heightened tensions and border closures post the Pahalgam attack, the Chabahar Port becomes a vital lifeline for Afghanistan’s trade with India. Given Afghanistan’s landlocked geography, this Iranian port is increasingly seen as a crucial alternative.
Steps Towards Normalisation
While full diplomatic recognition remains off the table, India and the Taliban have steadily engaged over the past three years. India has focused on humanitarian assistance and rebuilding ties. Indian diplomats have met Taliban officials multiple times in Kabul, including a recent visit in April 2025 by diplomat Anand Prakash.
Key Diplomatic Interactions
Indian representatives such as JP Singh have met Taliban leadership on multiple occasions, including March and November 2024 visits. In January 2025, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Muttaqi and his delegation in Dubai to discuss trade, humanitarian aid, security, and people-to-people cooperation.
Humanitarian Aid and Consular Access
India has gradually allowed Taliban-appointed officials to manage Afghan missions in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, facilitating consular services for Afghan nationals. New Delhi has also supplied over 50,000 tonnes of wheat, millions of vaccines, medical aid, and essential supplies since 2021.