Anand Prakash, India's head of Afghanistan affairs, met with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Foreign Minister of the Taliban, to discuss political and commercial matters. Afghan media reported on this meeting on Sunday. According to Afghanistan's Tolo News, the meeting held in Kabul focused on expanding political and economic relations with India.
'Indian Investors Urged to Benefit from Opportunities in Afghanistan'
Muttaqi emphasized the enhancement of diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries, urging Indian investors to take advantage of the investment opportunities in Afghanistan, as reported by the media quoting Afghan spokespersons.
This visit takes place amid increasing tensions between India and Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack. However, it remains unclear whether this issue was discussed during the conversation between Prakash and Muttaqi.
India Yet to Recognize Taliban Government
To note, India has not yet recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan and continues to call for the establishment of a truly inclusive government in Kabul. Additionally, India emphasizes that Afghan soil should not be used for terrorist activities against any country.
India Advocates Uninterrupted Humanitarian Assistance
India maintains the necessity of providing uninterrupted humanitarian aid in light of the escalating humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. In June 2022, India reinstated its diplomatic presence by sending a 'technical team' to its embassy in Kabul. This step followed the withdrawal of embassy officials due to security concerns after the Taliban assumed power in August 2021.
