The United Nations has temporarily lifted a travel ban on Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, allowing him to visit India. His expected trip, scheduled between October 9 and 16, would mark the first by a senior Taliban official to India since the group took control of Afghanistan in 2021. This development signals a possible shift in regional diplomacy and growing engagement with the Taliban administration.
India’s foreign ministry confirmed the UN move but did not fully confirm the visit. However, officials noted that India had already been in communication with Afghan authorities. They also highlighted India’s recent humanitarian aid following an earthquake in Afghanistan. These steps indicate that India may be open to cautious engagement while maintaining its broader strategic interests.
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Before arriving in India, Muttaqi is expected to visit Russia to attend multilateral talks on Afghanistan’s future. He will likely meet officials from Russia, China, Iran, Pakistan, India, and several Central Asian countries. These meetings aim to address the political and security challenges facing Afghanistan and seek regional cooperation. Media reports in both India and Afghanistan have confirmed his participation.
Political analysts believe the visit holds great importance for the Taliban government. It reflects their efforts to gain regional acceptance and strengthen international ties. Afghanistan needs recognition, trade opportunities, and diplomatic support, especially from neighboring countries. The Taliban see India as a key player in the region with potential for future cooperation.
India closed its Kabul embassy in 2021 but reopened a technical mission in 2022 to handle aid delivery. So far, only Russia has recognized the Taliban regime. If Muttaqi’s visit goes ahead, it may mark a step toward broader regional dialogue and future diplomatic developments in South Asia.