Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, has arrived in India for a seven-day visit, marking the first ministerial-level engagement with the Taliban regime since 2021. The visit focuses on humanitarian aid, trade, and regional connectivity, while India continues to avoid formal recognition of the Taliban government.

Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in India on Thursday for a seven-day official visit, scheduled from October 9 to 16. This marks the first ministerial-level engagement between New Delhi and the Taliban regime since the group seized power in August 2021. The visit is seen as a cautious but significant diplomatic step as India evaluates its approach toward the de facto rulers of Afghanistan.

Diplomatic Engagement With Caution

Sources indicated that Muttaqi is likely to hold talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, though the final agenda has not been confirmed. The visit has already raised questions about protocol, including whether the Afghan-Taliban flag will be displayed during official meetings. Indian officials said the matter is being handled “with discretion,” as India has not formally recognized the Taliban government.

Since the Taliban takeover, India has maintained limited contact through technical channels, focusing mainly on humanitarian coordination and regional security discussions. India reopened its embassy in Kabul last year in a limited capacity to manage aid distribution and consular services while avoiding formal diplomatic recognition.

Focus On Trade and Humanitarian Issues

During the visit, Muttaqi is expected to meet Indian security officials and business representatives, with discussions likely covering regional connectivity, trade routes, agricultural exports, and medical supplies. Afghanistan is seeking expanded trade with South Asian nations, particularly India, amid sanctions and international isolation. A source familiar with the visit said, “The focus is on humanitarian and trade discussions, not political recognition. Both sides want stability in the region.”

India has invested over $3 billion in development projects in Afghanistan over the past two decades, including roads, dams, and the Parliament building in Kabul. Ensuring the safety of Indian assets and aid workers remains a top priority, while officials remain cautious about the Taliban’s ties with Pakistan and militant groups.

Strategic Importance And Regional Implications

The Taliban’s visit to India comes amid growing isolation from Western powers. The United States and European Union continue to demand assurances on women’s rights, education, and inclusive governance before resuming formal relations. Experts note that while engagement is needed to prevent further instability in Afghanistan, India must carefully balance diplomacy with strategic caution.

Whether Muttaqi’s visit leads to deeper engagement or remains largely symbolic will depend on the outcome of his meetings in New Delhi. For now, his arrival signals the cautious return of dialogue between two capitals that have been distant since 2021.