India upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy on Friday, a major development in the re-establishment of diplomatic relations with Afghanistan. This important announcement came during a meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi.
Following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, India evacuated all its officials from its embassy. In June 2022, a technical team was redeployed to resume limited operations. The recent upgrade aims to strengthen India’s commitments towards humanitarian aid, infrastructure projects, and regional security cooperation.
Jaishankar remarked during their meeting, “Your visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan.” He acknowledged that India has a significant interest in the development and progress of the Afghan people as a contiguous neighbor.
The Indian Foreign Minister highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two nations, which has seen considerable investment in various major projects in Afghanistan, has now been renewed. He commended the Taliban administration for showing “sensitivity towards India’s security concerns,” especially after the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
Jaishankar underscored that both countries share a common commitment to growth, stability, and ongoing prosperity, yet they both face serious threats from cross-border terrorism. “We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” he stated, emphasizing the mutual necessity of counter-terrorism efforts.
In a response, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi described India as a crucial regional ally that has continually supported the Afghan population. He expressed appreciation for India’s humanitarian assistance and reiterated Afghanistan’s interest in enhancing cooperation in sectors like trade, infrastructure, and education.
This upgrade signifies New Delhi’s cautious yet strategic re-engagement with the Taliban-led government, driven primarily by security concerns, the need for regional stability, and the historical ties that India shares with the Afghan populace.
