Now Reading: India deepens Kabul ties, keeps Taliban recognition on hold
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India deepens Kabul ties, keeps Taliban recognition on hold
India plans to formally recognise Afghanistan’s Taliban government “in due time”, but will first seek greater clarity on security, inclusivity and social concerns, The Hindu BusinessLine reported. Until then, New Delhi will…
India plans to formally recognise Afghanistan’s Taliban government “in due time”, but will first seek greater clarity on security, inclusivity and social concerns, The Hindu BusinessLine reported. Until then, New Delhi will continue expanding diplomatic, economic and development engagement with Kabul because of Afghanistan’s strategic importance.
India reopened a technical mission in Kabul in June 2022 and upgraded it to an embassy in October 2025, appointing a Chargé d’Affaires. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and ministers handling commerce, public health and agriculture have visited India in recent months. Talks have covered trade, transit, connectivity, agriculture, irrigation, health and capacity building.
India wants firmer assurances that Afghan territory will not be used for anti-India terrorist activity. The Taliban’s record on human rights, women’s rights and social inclusivity also remains a consideration before any formal recognition decision.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Formal recognition and working engagement are separate diplomatic choices. India can maintain an embassy, conduct ministerial talks and support development work without extending full political recognition, allowing it to protect practical interests while keeping conditions attached. Recognition would carry a stronger diplomatic signal and could affect how India handles official agreements and representation. The next signal to watch is whether New Delhi publicly sets or receives specific security and governance assurances.
Source: thehindubusinessline.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
