New Delhi: In a diplomatic move, India conducted its first-ever meeting with the Taliban’s Acting Defence Minister, Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, during a visit to Kabul from November 4-5. The meeting, confirmed by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, was led by JP Singh, Joint Secretary for the Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan (PAI) desk.
“Yes, this was the first meeting with the interim Defence Minister of Afghanistan, and humanitarian assistance from India was the centrepiece of JP Singh’s discussions with Afghan officials,” Jaiswal said.
The Taliban defence ministry shared a photo of Mujahid and Singh on social media, indicating mutual interest in expanding relations, particularly in humanitarian cooperation.
During his visit, Singh also met Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Acting Foreign Minister, to deliberate on economic and political ties. The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that Muttaqi requested India to facilitate visas for Afghan traders to boost trade.
“Singh stressed the importance of bilateral engagement and noted that talks involving Afghanistan, India, and regional stakeholders on utilising the Chabahar port would commence soon,” Jaiswal stated.
This port, managed by India, represents a crucial connectivity corridor for Afghan businesses, enabling improved trade routes through Iran. The discussions underscored India’s continued commitment to humanitarian support, which has included substantial shipments of wheat, medicines, and relief materials.
The delegation also met former Afghan President Hamid Karzai, who expressed gratitude for India’s aid and called for enhanced focus on education, trade, and eased travel for Afghans.
“In this meeting, the long-standing and historical relations between the two countries were discussed and emphasis was placed on strengthening bilateral relations as much as possible,” Karzai posted.
This landmark visit signals India’s strategic interest in fostering deeper ties and supporting Afghanistan’s stability.
