Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions following the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region, senior Indian diplomat Anand Prakash, Joint Secretary of the Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran Division at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, met the Taliban's acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, in Kabul on 27 April 2025.
The discussions mainly focused on strengthening political ties, enhancing trade and transit cooperation, and exchanging views on recent regional developments. Muttaqi urged for the expansion of diplomatic and economic relations with India, highlighting Afghanistan’s investment-friendly environment and inviting Indian investors to explore new opportunities. He also pointed out the need to facilitate the movement of people between the two countries and normalise visa procedures for Afghan patients, students, and businessmen.
During the meeting, the Taliban foreign ministry condemned the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, expressed condolences to the victims' families, and warned that such incidents threaten regional security and stability.
This diplomatic outreach signals a big shift in India’s approach towards Afghanistan since the Taliban's return to power in 2021, reflecting a careful yet strategic move to maintain influence and practical cooperation despite the Taliban government's lack of international recognition.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)