Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting/sbkinews.in
New Delhi, October 2025 – In a significant diplomatic engagement, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on October 10, 2025. This high-level meeting marks an important milestone in India-Afghanistan relations under the Taliban regime, reflecting a cautious but pragmatic effort to foster dialogue and cooperation amidst complex regional dynamics.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties Amid Regional Uncertainties
Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India represents one of the most visible diplomatic gestures by the Taliban since its takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The meeting with Jaishankar emphasized Afghanistan’s recognition of India as a close and trusted friend. During their discussions, Muttaqi reassured that Afghanistan would maintain a policy of non-hostility towards its neighbors and would not permit any armed groups to operate from its soil in ways that destabilize other countries.
The promise that Afghanistan “won’t allow any group to use its territory” reassures India amid longstanding concerns about cross-border terrorism and militant activity emanating from Afghan soil. For New Delhi, this pledge is pivotal in shaping its Afghanistan policy and addressing security imperatives.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
India’s Role in Humanitarian Support and Development
Foreign Minister Muttaqi acknowledged India’s generous humanitarian assistance, especially in the aftermath of recent natural disasters, including catastrophic earthquakes in Afghanistan. He underscored how India’s swift relief efforts exemplify the bond between the two countries, reflecting shared cultural values and an enduring friendship.
India has historically been one of Afghanistan’s largest development partners, contributing to infrastructure projects such as the Salma Dam, roads, health facilities, and educational initiatives. The meeting reinforced the willingness to resume and expand such cooperation, contingent upon regional stability and mutual interests.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
Upgrading Diplomatic Missions: A New Phase in Bilateral Relations
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that India plans to upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy. This move signals New Delhi’s intent to deepen diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan despite the challenges posed by the Taliban’s governance.
The reopening of a full embassy is part of India’s balanced approach—engaging diplomatically while articulating clear expectations regarding governance, respect for human rights, including women’s rights, and counterterrorism.
Jaishankar emphasized that India welcomes Afghanistan’s commitment to peace, stability, and ensuring that its territory is not used to threaten other countries. He underlined the importance of inclusive governance structures that represent Afghanistan’s diverse population for long-term peace.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
Mutual Interests: Security, Trade, and Regional Stability
One of the key discussion areas was enhancing security cooperation to counter terrorism and violent extremism. Both leaders agreed on the need for robust intelligence sharing and joint efforts to disrupt terror networks posing threats to regional peace.
Economic cooperation also featured prominently, with Afghanistan expressing interest in expanding trade ties, particularly in mineral exploration and exports, given its abundant natural resources. India’s strategic vision includes leveraging Afghanistan as a gateway to Central Asia, enhancing regional connectivity.
The dialogue also covered transit and transport corridors facilitating trade between India and Afghanistan via Iran’s Chabahar Port, bypassing Pakistan. This corridor is a vital link to boost Afghanistan’s economy and strengthen regional economic integration.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
Historical Context and Sensitive Balancing Act
India’s engagement with the Taliban regime occurs within a complex historical and geopolitical framework. India was a key ally of the previous Afghan government and invested heavily over two decades to support Afghanistan’s reconstruction.
The Taliban’s return to power in August 2021 posed critical challenges for New Delhi, including concerns over security, terrorism, and human rights issues. India’s cautious outreach, exemplified by Minister Muttaqi’s visit, reflects a pragmatic strategy to protect its interests while encouraging moderation and stability in Afghanistan.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
Reactions and Expectations from Stakeholders
The visit has elicited mixed reactions domestically and internationally. Supporters hail it as a necessary diplomatic engagement to safeguard India’s strategic interests and promote peace. Critics remain skeptical of Taliban’s commitments, especially on human rights and inclusive governance.
Afghan diaspora and civil society advocates continue urging all stakeholders to prioritize Afghanistan’s humanitarian needs and political reconciliation to avoid further crisis.
International partners closely monitor India’s stance as it could influence broader regional and global policies towards Afghanistan.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive tone of the meetings, significant challenges remain. The Taliban’s governance, issues related to women’s rights, minority protections, and establishment of a representative government are ongoing concerns.
India’s approach underscores the importance of dialogue combined with firm expectations for progress on these fronts. Bilateral cooperation is likely to remain contingent on the Taliban’s adherence to commitments regarding peace and security.
At the same time, economic opportunities, disaster relief collaboration, and cultural exchanges offer avenues to build trust and mutual benefits.
Taliban FM Muttaqi India meeting
Conclusion: Diplomacy Amid Complexity
The meeting between Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is a pivotal step in recalibrating India-Afghanistan relations. It signals Afghanistan’s intent to strengthen ties with India while assuring that its territory will not be a launchpad for destabilizing activities.
India’s balanced and principled engagement aims to promote regional stability, security, and humanitarian progress in Afghanistan. The reopening of India’s embassy symbolizes a new phase of diplomacy potentially conducive to peace and development.
This phase requires sustained dialogue, careful monitoring, and strategic cooperation to navigate the delicate geopolitical environment and deliver tangible benefits to the people of both nations.
