India officially upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to full embassy status on Friday, a pivotal development in rekindling diplomatic relations with Afghanistan. This announcement came during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi.
Following the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, India withdrew its officials, but redeployed a technical team in June 2022 for limited operations. The upgrade is part of India’s strategy to enhance engagement with Afghanistan, concentrating on humanitarian aid, infrastructure projects, and bolstering regional security cooperation.
“Your visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan,” Jaishankar stated during his opening remarks. He emphasized India’s significant interest in the development and progress of the Afghan people given its close geographical and historical ties.
Jaishankar noted that India has a long-standing partnership with Afghanistan, supporting several major infrastructure projects over the years. He acknowledged the Taliban’s sensitivity towards India’s security concerns, particularly after the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
“Both of our nations face the shared threat of cross-border terrorism. We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar added, calling for a united front against such challenges.
In response, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi highlighted India’s role as a vital regional partner, consistently supporting the Afghan populace. He expressed gratitude for India’s ongoing humanitarian assistance and reiterated Kabul’s eagerness to strengthen cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and education sectors.
The elevation of India’s diplomatic mission to embassy status underscores New Delhi’s cautious yet strategic re-engagement with the Taliban-led administration, driven by concerns of security, regional stability, and historic ties with the Afghan people.
