Indian delegation in Kabul for several days

KABUL: A high-level delegation from India’s Ministry of External Affairs has been holding discussions with Taliban officials in Kabul for several days, according to a media report.

The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed in a statement on Thursday that Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban’s acting foreign minister, met with J.P. Singh, India’s special representative for Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan, to discuss strengthening political and economic relations.

The meeting included dialogue on visa facilitation for Afghan citizens, a step aimed at fostering greater connectivity between the two countries.

“Amir Khan Muttaqi engaged in talks with Singh on enhancing political and economic relations,” the ministry said. “Singh described the relationship between India and Afghanistan as historic, while Muttaqi emphasised the importance of easing visa services for Afghan citizens.”

These meetings occur as all Indian diplomatic missions in Afghanistan remain closed following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. India has yet to formally reinstate an active diplomatic presence in the country.

In a notable development, the Indian deputy foreign minister met with Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, the Taliban’s acting defence minister, reiterating commitments to bolster mutual cooperation. The Ministry of Defense released a statement highlighting the visit: “ Singh, heading the Indian delegation, discussed shared interests and potential areas of partnership with Mujahid.”