Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said trade between Afghanistan and India has reached nearly USD 1 billion and that conditions are now favourable for expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
Speaking at a meeting with representatives of Indian industries in New Delhi on Monday, Muttaqi called for simplified visa procedures for Afghan traders to help boost bilateral trade.
According to Indian media reports, the remarks were made during a joint session with members of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). Muttaqi said that peace and security had been restored in Afghanistan, providing an opportunity for greater economic engagement.
Representatives of India’s private sector at the meeting highlighted ongoing challenges, saying that difficulties in obtaining visas and delays in the transport of goods remain key obstacles to trade. They urged both sides to review visa processes and improve trade routes to prevent delays in Indian investment projects in Afghanistan.
India has been one of Afghanistan’s key regional trade partners in recent years. However, bilateral economic activity has significantly declined since the fall of the previous government and the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
