VOI World/ Desk
India and the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) are set to take a step toward deeper diplomatic engagement with the Taliban regime planning to appoint its first official diplomat in New Delhi this month. The move follows the October visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India and signals a cautious thaw in ties, even though India has not formally recognised the Taliban government.
The diplomat’s posting in Delhi marks the first such assignment since the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul in August 2021. According to reports, a second diplomat may arrive in India by late December or early January.
New Delhi has meanwhile upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to the level of an embassy, reflecting its intent to expand humanitarian and development cooperation in Afghanistan while maintaining caution about full recognition.
For India, the appointment carries strategic significance. It comes amid broader regional realignments and underscores New Delhi’s focus on stabilising its western neighbourhood. The development unfolds under the leadership of Indian PM Modi, whose foreign-policy agenda emphasises connectivity, aid and engagement with Afghanistan, even in a complex diplomatic environment.
India and Afghanistan are expected to remain engaged through humanitarian supplies, high-level talks and economic cooperation – while New Delhi continues to navigate sensitive issues such as recognition, women’s rights and regional security.
