Midway through 2021, the Taliban took over Afghanistan, overthrowing its elected government shortly after the withdrawal of U.S. troops. Due to the Taliban's notorious past, nearly all countries have kept their distance, refusing to acknowledge them as a legitimate government. India has yet to officially recognize them as well but has notably increased its diplomatic engagement recently. So, what is truly driving Delhi's calculated approach toward the Taliban?
Transitioning Relationship Dynamics
Four years ago, when the Taliban seized control in Kabul, India distanced itself. It was hard to imagine that relations could improve again. Taliban's extremism, partly influenced by its proximity to Pakistan, played a significant role. Since 2001, the U.S. presence had bonded Delhi and Kabul once again in diplomatic ties.
A new chapter in the fluctuating relationship has begun as India and the Taliban appear to inch closer. Recently, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with acting Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai. This meeting is seen as a significant political maneuver against Pakistan. Pakistani media suggests that the rapprochement between India and the Taliban may be countering India’s relations with Bangladesh and Islamabad.
Source: aajtak
Are Ties with the Taliban Truly Improving?
India is treading carefully, taking small steps in its engagement with the Taliban. Recently, India criticized Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan territory. Moreover, diplomatic meetings continue, albeit without recognizing the organization as a sovereign government.
A Brutal Past Hinders Formal Recognition
In the 1990s, the Taliban seized Kabul, establishing extremist rule, enforcing strict Islamic laws, and eradicating almost all human rights. During this period of extremism, the world recognized the Taliban as a terrorist organization, complicating diplomatic ties.
Uncertain Stance Amid Recognition Dilemma
During the initial phase of Taliban rule in Afghanistan, only three countries acknowledged their government: Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Pakistan. Even today, few countries are willing to grant full political recognition. Nations like China and Russia have provided partial acceptance. Meanwhile, others—Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Gulf states—have largely recognized them. However, it's unclear if Taliban control has stabilized diplomatic missions within these territories.
Source: aajtak
Implications of Receiving Official Recognition
Official status permits mutual acceptance between nations, enabling economic and political relations, embassies, and diplomatic immunity for posted personnel. This recognition also facilitates access to international loans.
The Decision-Making Authority
Typically, a nation's supreme leader, alongside their cabinet, decides on recognition. The process is complex, examining whether the new power ascended violently or legally. Foreign policy plays a crucial role. For instance, India must weigh potential repercussions—alienating neighbors or enabling espionage—before recognizing the Taliban.
The Nation's Cautious Moves
Currently, India hasn't granted full government recognition but has begun engaging in dialogue, based in part on the Taliban's assurances of distancing from extremism. However, this relationship may also serve as a strategic counter to Pakistan and other regional influences, like China, which heavily invested in Afghan infrastructure when other nations withdrew. Amid deteriorating relations with Dhaka, India is striving to expand its cultural influence in Afghanistan.
Source: aajtak
A report from The Diplomat quotes Gautam Mukhopadhyay, India's ambassador to Afghanistan for nearly four years, noting that India is effectively re-entering the diplomatic scene. India has reopened its embassy in Kabul, providing a strategic foothold to monitor developments and judge the extent of possible engagement, ensuring that Pakistan doesn't exploit its proximity to Kabul for anti-India activities.
The Taliban's New Diplomatic Approach
Returning to power post-1990s has presented the Taliban a pivotal opportunity, which remains unrealized without the support of major world players. India could be a vital ally, contingent on the Taliban estranging itself from Pakistan. The previous regime was significantly influenced by Islamabad, whereas current strained ties paint a different picture. Attempting to present a reformed image, the Taliban seeks to align with India.
