In a significant diplomatic development, the Taliban has called India a “significant regional and economic partner” following high-level talks between the two sides. The meeting, held in Dubai on Wednesday, marked the highest such engagement since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with acting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to discuss trade, development, and regional stability.
The talks focused on boosting trade through Chabahar Port in Iran, a critical project developed by India to bypass Pakistani ports. Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized its intent to strengthen political and economic ties with India as part of its balanced, economy-focused foreign policy.
India, in turn, expressed its willingness to engage in development projects in Afghanistan and expand trade relations. “In response to the Afghan side’s request, India will provide further material support to the health sector and aid in the rehabilitation of refugees,” read a statement from India’s foreign ministry.
India reaffirmed its commitment to Afghan refugees, many of whom reside in India, by pledging material aid to support their rehabilitation back in Afghanistan. Since late 2023, over one million refugees have been repatriated by Pakistan and Iran. Afghan officials reported distributing land to returning refugees, aiming to reintegrate them into the country.
The two sides discussed strengthening collaboration in healthcare and sports, particularly cricket, a beloved game in both nations. India has previously sent humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, including shipments of wheat, medicines, COVID-19 vaccines, and winter clothing.
Although no country, including India, officially recognizes the Taliban government, India has maintained a pragmatic approach. It reopened its Kabul embassy in June 2022 with a team of technical experts to oversee operations.
The Afghan embassy in New Delhi, however, was shut down in November 2023 after officials from the ousted Afghan government failed to secure visa extensions. Despite this, the Taliban recently appointed Ikramuddin Kamil as its acting consul in Mumbai, signaling continued diplomatic engagement.
The meeting came amid escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Last week, Pakistan launched airstrikes in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province, targeting what it claimed were Pakistan Taliban fighters. The strikes killed dozens, primarily women and children, sparking international condemnation, including from India.
The Afghan side acknowledged India’s security concerns during the meeting and agreed to maintain regular contact at various levels to address shared challenges.
India’s approach to engaging with the Taliban reflects its strategic priorities in the region. While it has not officially recognized the Taliban regime, it continues to facilitate trade, provide humanitarian aid, and support Afghan refugees.
As the region grapples with shifting dynamics, the talks highlight India’s effort to secure its interests while advocating for stability and development in Afghanistan.
