In a potentially groundbreaking development, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is slated to visit India next week, marking the first high-level visit since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021. This visit signifies a cautiously deepening engagement between New Delhi and the Taliban regime, while balancing international concerns.

The UN Security Council has granted Muttaqi a temporary travel exemption, authorizing his visit to New Delhi between October 9 and 16. This exemption is particularly noteworthy because Muttaqi is under UN Security Council sanctions, including a travel ban, requiring special permissions for international travel. Earlier attempts at diplomatic outreach have been derailed by these restrictions, including a proposed visit to Pakistan in August that was reportedly blocked by the United States.

India has maintained a limited engagement with the Taliban regime, primarily focusing on humanitarian assistance and people-to-people connections. India has also voiced concerns regarding terrorism, and the rights of women and minorities in Afghanistan.

This visit represents the first time the Taliban will participate as a member in a multilateral forum, rather than as a guest. Muttaqi has expressed hope that such platforms will foster trust and improve relations with neighboring countries, calling the development an "important step". Suhail Shaheen, head of the Taliban's political office in Qatar, emphasized the importance of high-level visits like Muttaqi's to explore cooperation in trade and other sectors, while also acknowledging India's assistance and historical friendship with the Afghan people.

The visit could signal a new chapter in India-Afghanistan relations. It reflects New Delhi's intention to cautiously deepen engagement with the Taliban regime while addressing global concerns about recognition and sanctions.