Kabul: The Taliban has acknowledged India as a “significant regional and economic partner” following a high-level meeting with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. This marks the most senior engagement between India and the Taliban since their takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.
Details of the Meeting
- The meeting took place in Dubai on Wednesday between Misri and acting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
- Discussions centered around:
- Expanding bilateral relations.
- Boosting trade via Chabahar Port in Iran, which India has been developing as an alternative trade route bypassing Pakistan’s ports of Karachi and Gwadar.
The Afghan foreign ministry stated:
“In line with Afghanistan’s balanced and economy-focused foreign policy, the Islamic Emirate aims to strengthen political and economic ties with India as a significant regional and economic partner.”
India’s Position
India’s foreign ministry confirmed it is considering engaging in development projects in Afghanistan and enhancing trade ties. Although no country, including India, officially recognizes the Taliban government, India maintains a small diplomatic mission in Kabul for facilitating trade, humanitarian aid, and medical support.
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Regional Implications
India’s renewed engagement with Afghanistan comes amid increasing interest from other regional players like China and Russia, who have expressed willingness to invest and boost trade ties with Afghanistan.
However, these developments could strain relations with Pakistan, India’s regional rival.
- India and Pakistan have fought three wars and have a history of tense relations.
- Pakistan has accused the Taliban of harboring militants responsible for attacks on its soil—an accusation the Taliban denies.
- India recently condemned Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan soil, adding further tension to the regional dynamic.
Chabahar Port’s Strategic Role
The Chabahar Port project, spearheaded by India, is seen as a critical trade route allowing goods to bypass Pakistan. It is an important element in India’s regional strategy, particularly in fostering trade with Afghanistan under challenging geopolitical conditions.
Outlook
While official recognition of the Taliban remains off the table for now, India’s growing economic and trade engagement with Afghanistan signals a pragmatic approach. The move aligns with India’s broader regional strategy to counterbalance influences from Pakistan and China while addressing humanitarian needs in Afghanistan.
This engagement is expected to continue evolving as geopolitical dynamics shift in the region.
