In a significant diplomatic development, Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, is scheduled to visit India from October 9 to 16, 2025. This marks the first high-level visit by a senior Taliban official to India since the group seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021. The United Nations Security Council has granted a temporary exemption from travel restrictions to facilitate this visit
Reuters
.
Background and Context
Since the Taliban’s return to power, India has maintained a cautious approach, providing humanitarian aid to Afghanistan while refraining from formal diplomatic recognition. The reopening of India’s technical mission in Kabul in 2022 signaled a pragmatic shift, focusing on humanitarian assistance and regional stability
Reuters
.
Objectives of the Visit
The upcoming visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between India and Afghanistan, focusing on areas such as trade, healthcare, and consular services. Discussions are expected to include the utilization of Iran’s Chabahar Port for Afghan trade, a project developed with India’s assistance to provide Afghanistan with direct access to the Indian Ocean, bypassing Pakistan
Reuters
.
Implications for Regional Diplomacy
This visit occurs against the backdrop of evolving regional dynamics. Russia has become the first country to officially recognize the Taliban’s government, while other nations, including China and the UAE, have engaged diplomatically with Kabul. India’s engagement with the Taliban may influence its relations with Pakistan, which has historically been an ally of the Taliban and has expressed concerns over cross-border militancy originating from Afghan soil
AP News
.
Conclusion
Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India represents a pivotal moment in South Asian diplomacy. While India has not formally recognized the Taliban’s government, this engagement underscores a pragmatic approach to fostering regional stability and addressing humanitarian concerns. The outcomes of this visit could set the tone for future interactions between India and Afghanistan under Taliban rule.