Counterterrorism, Trade, and Regional Security to Dominate Agenda as Afghan FM Muttaqi Visits India

New Delhi – Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s upcoming visit to India marks a new chapter in New Delhi’s engagement with the Taliban regime. The trip, cleared after the UN Security Council’s Taliban Sanctions Committee approved a special exemption, will take place between October 9 and 16.

During his stay, Muttaqi is expected to meet External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The visit is being described as a diplomatic breakthrough, as bilateral ties have been strained for years.

Counterterrorism to Lead Discussions
Counterterrorism will be the top agenda item, with both India and Afghanistan sharing concerns over Pakistan’s role in regional instability. Discussions are likely to focus on enhancing security cooperation and addressing cross-border terror threats.

Trade and Connectivity in Focus
Trade facilitation is another priority. Talks may cover easing transport barriers, boosting cross-border commerce, and exploring new trade corridors. Visa quotas are also expected to come up, particularly for medical travellers, students, and business professionals. India may expand scholarships for Afghan students pursuing professional and technical courses.

Health, Infrastructure, and Energy Cooperation
Afghanistan is likely to seek Indian cooperation in medical missions, health facilities, infrastructure development, and energy projects, including water and electricity supply.

Embassy and Diplomatic Upgradation
Another critical item will be the possible upgradation of India’s embassy in Kabul, with both sides considering the posting of full-fledged ambassadors and expanded consular services—steps that could normalize state-to-state engagement.

Geopolitical Context
Muttaqi’s September visit was blocked after Pakistan opposed his travel request at the UN. However, Indian officials have maintained informal channels with Taliban leaders in recent years, holding meetings at neutral venues such as Dubai.

India’s engagement is shaped by regional geopolitics. While the Taliban was long seen as a Pakistan ally, tensions have risen over Kabul’s refusal to curb the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Meanwhile, China has been actively courting the Taliban, eyeing Afghanistan’s mineral resources and regional connectivity through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Muttaqi, who has served as Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister since the US troop withdrawal in 2021, has already engaged in trilateral talks with China and Pakistan. His visit to India will therefore be closely watched as New Delhi recalibrates its approach to Afghanistan amid shifting regional dynamics.

With inputs from IANS