Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Foreign Minister of the Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan, is in New Delhi from October 9-16. This visit marks a significant moment as the first visit by a top Taliban leader to India since the group's return to power in 2021.
The Taliban are seeking an upgrade in their relationship with India through diplomatic recognition of their "Islamic Emirate". Suhail Shaheen, a key official in the Taliban government, stated that recognition would remove an obstacle in the way of better relations between Afghanistan and India.
India has not yet granted official recognition to the Taliban regime. However, this visit signals a carefully calibrated shift in New Delhi's approach, suggesting a pragmatic thaw in relations. India has maintained that recognition is contingent upon the Taliban demonstrating progress towards an inclusive government. Despite the lack of formal recognition, India continues to engage with the Taliban, driven by strategic interests and concerns regarding regional security.
Several factors are driving this engagement. India is keen to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorist activities against any country. There are growing concerns in New Delhi about the resurgence of terror groups in Afghanistan and the potential spillover effects. Engaging with the Taliban on counter-terrorism is seen as essential, even without formal recognition.
Furthermore, India aims to maintain its influence in Kabul and not be left behind by its rivals, China and Pakistan. Some experts suggest that India's engagement with the Afghan Taliban is also tied to regional security concerns, particularly fears of Pakistan using the Taliban and other militant groups as proxies. By engaging with the Taliban, India can create a perception of legitimacy for them and show that the Taliban are not solely dependent on Islamabad.
During Muttaqi's visit, discussions are expected to cover a range of issues, including the appointment of a Taliban-supported ambassador to the Afghan embassy in New Delhi. Muttaqi is also likely to push for the issuance of more visas, increased investments, and the resumption of infrastructure projects.
India has provided humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, including wheat, medicines, and vaccines. The country also re-established a "technical team" in its Kabul embassy in June 2022 to coordinate aid. Expanding Afghanistan's diplomatic presence in India would facilitate better access for trade, student visas, and medical travel.
While Russia has formally recognized the Taliban administration, most countries, including India, have not. However, many have stepped up their engagement through diplomatic exchanges and handing over control of embassies to Taliban appointees. India's approach is cautious, balancing its regional interests with concerns about human rights and the need for an inclusive government in Afghanistan.
The visit has presented some diplomatic dilemmas. As India doesn't recognize the Taliban, there have been debates about whether to allow the Taliban flag to be placed next to the Indian flag during meetings.
Muttaqi's visit underscores the complex dynamics in the region and the evolving relationship between India and the Taliban. While formal recognition may not be imminent, the ongoing engagement signifies a pragmatic approach to addressing shared concerns and pursuing regional stability.
