In a notable development, the Taliban has referred to India as a “significant regional and economic partner” after high-level discussions between senior officials from both nations. This meeting, which marks the highest-level talks since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021, was held in Dubai on January 8, 2025. India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, met with Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, to explore ways to expand bilateral relations.
The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement emphasizing the importance of India’s role in the region, particularly in boosting economic ties. They discussed leveraging the Chabahar Port in Iran to facilitate trade, which would bypass Pakistan’s Karachi and Gwadar ports. This port, developed by India, plays a crucial role in Afghanistan’s trade activities. The Taliban also highlighted its focus on strengthening political and economic ties with India as part of its “balanced, economy-focused foreign policy.”
India’s Foreign Ministry confirmed its interest in engaging in development projects within Afghanistan and enhancing trade relations. The country, which hosts thousands of Afghan refugees, also pledged to provide “material support” for the rehabilitation of these refugees, particularly in the health sector.
Though no foreign government officially recognizes the Taliban administration, India reopened its embassy in Kabul in June 2022 and has provided humanitarian aid, including wheat, medicines, COVID vaccines, and winter clothing to Afghanistan.
The meeting took place amid rising tensions between Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan, with India reiterating its support for Afghanistan and condemning recent air strikes in the eastern Paktika province. Despite long-standing rivalries with Pakistan, India continues to engage with Afghanistan as part of its broader regional strategy.
