India envoy meets Taliban leadership in Kabul amid tensions with Pakistan

Amid growing diplomatic friction with Pakistan, India has taken a significant step by engaging directly with the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan. Indian special envoy Anand Prakash travelled to Kabul to meet Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi and other senior Taliban officials.

The discussions centered around strengthening political ties, boosting trade and transit cooperation, and exchanging perspectives on recent regional developments. Both sides emphasised the importance of streamlining visa procedures, promoting the exchange of delegations, and enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including business, health, and education.

This engagement comes at a critical time when India has downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists. In contrast, India appears keen on expanding its strategic engagement with Afghanistan, indicating a shift in its regional approach.

During the meeting, the Afghan Foreign Minister called for simplifying visa processes, particularly for businessmen, patients, and students, aiming to normalise the movement of people between the two countries. The Taliban leadership stressed the importance of facilitating economic and social interactions to foster mutual growth.

Anand Prakash reiterated India’s commitment to continuing humanitarian and development assistance to Afghanistan. He expressed India’s readiness to invest in infrastructure projects, including the resumption of initiatives that had been previously halted due to security concerns and political uncertainty.

India’s outreach reflects its strategic recalibration in South Asia, aiming to secure its interests while navigating the complex regional dynamics emerging after the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan.