India recently held a high-level meeting with the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan in Dubai, marking a significant effort to enhance bilateral relations. The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, saw senior officials from both sides in attendance. India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, led the Indian delegation, while the Taliban government was represented by its acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation between the two countries in various strategic areas.
Both sides underscored the importance of deepening collaboration in sectors such as humanitarian assistance, trade, development aid, sports, and cultural exchanges. Regional security concerns were also addressed, with both nations emphasizing the need for greater cooperation on joint projects that align with their mutual interests. A key point of discussion was the Chabahar Port in Iran, which India and Afghanistan view as an essential trade route that bypasses Pakistan, offering enhanced connectivity for goods and services between the two countries.
The Indian government reiterated its commitment to providing humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, with particular emphasis on supporting the country’s healthcare system. India pledged further assistance, including the provision of medical supplies, and expressed its readiness to increase efforts to assist Afghan refugees. Additionally, India confirmed its willingness to expand its involvement in development projects that meet Afghanistan’s current needs.
Despite these efforts, India has not formally recognized the Taliban-led government following the latter’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021 after the withdrawal of U.S. forces. In the wake of this political shift, India closed its embassy in Kabul, although it has continued diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan through humanitarian and development channels. India’s ongoing support for the Afghan people, particularly in the areas of economic assistance and healthcare, remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy toward Afghanistan.
This meeting took place amid growing regional tensions, particularly with Pakistan. Recently, reports of Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan, including fatalities among civilians, have heightened security concerns in the region. These developments underscore the complex and often volatile geopolitical landscape surrounding Afghanistan.
India’s continued engagement with Afghanistan, even under Taliban rule, is seen as a crucial factor in maintaining stability in the region. By focusing on humanitarian aid and development support, India is carefully navigating its relationship with Afghanistan, balancing regional cooperation with broader international considerations.