India will upgrade its diplomatic mission in Kabul to embassy level, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar announced during a meeting with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi on Thursday.
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, India’s presence in Kabul has been limited to a “technical mission.” Muttaqi’s visit marks the first official trip to India by a senior Taliban official.
Jaishankar described the visit as “an important step in advancing our ties and reaffirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan.” He said both sides share a commitment to regional growth and prosperity but face challenges from cross-border terrorism.
“We must coordinate our efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar said, adding that India appreciated the Taliban’s “sensitivity towards India’s security concerns,” referencing his earlier phone call with Muttaqi following the Pahalgam attack in April.
Pledge of Further Assistance
Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s long-term commitment to Afghanistan’s development, announcing six new projects to be implemented after further discussions. These include the donation of 20 ambulances to Afghan hospitals, five of which were personally handed over to Muttaqi during his visit, and the delivery of a food aid shipment to Afghanistan on Friday.
He also announced that India will provide MRI and CT scan equipment to Afghan hospitals and expressed readiness to cooperate with the Taliban on water management initiatives.
Jaishankar further praised the growing talent in Afghan cricket and said India would expand its support for Afghanistan’s national cricket team.
