 "Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi (Reuters)")
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the upgrade of the technical mission of India in Afghanistan to a full mission, the Embassy of India in Kabul, as he met Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Friday during his visit to New Delhi
Jaishankar said, “India is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Afghanistan.” He added that India and Afghanistan have “a common commitment towards growth”, which is threatened by cross-border terrorism.
Meanwhile, Muttaqi said, “Afghanistan looks at India as a close friend. We will not allow anyone to use the territory of Afghanistan to threaten or against others.”
Muttaqi’s trip – made possible after the UN Security Council granted him a travel waiver – is expected to be closely watched by India’s arch-rival Pakistan, as New Delhi deepens its engagement with the Taliban government.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsThe restoration of diplomatic ties with Afghanistan, four years after India shut its embassy and consulates in 2021, marks a significant moment in New Delhi’s neighbourhood diplomacy.
It is important to note that in 2022, India’s Embassy in Kabul re-established a diplomatic presence with a technical team to manage humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.
‘Won’t let anyone to use Afghan soil against others’
Reaffirming India-Afghanistan ties, Muttaqi said, “I am happy to be in Delhi, and this visit will increase the understanding between the two countries. India and Afghanistan should increase their engagements and exchanges…We will not allow any group to use our territory against others.”
India does not recognise the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. “India is not in a hurry to provide diplomatic recognition to the Taliban,” Rakesh Sood, India’s former ambassador to Kabul, told AFP.