Taliban foreign minister's first India visit underway

Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi reached New Delhi last night, the first visit to India by a Taliban leader since the group seized power in Kabul in 2021 following the fall of the Ashraf Ghani government.

"Warm welcome to Afghan Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi on his arrival in New Delhi," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.

The visit highlights the Taliban's efforts to expand engagement with regional powers, including India, as it seeks to break out of international isolation and gain diplomatic recognition. So far, Russia remains the only country to have formally recognised the Taliban administration.

During his six-day stay, Muttaqi will hold extensive talks with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at Hyderabad House and meet Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, official sources said.

The Taliban delegation is expected to raise issues such as easing visa restrictions for Afghan students, businesspeople, and patients seeking medical treatment in India, according to sources.

After his official engagements, Muttaqi is scheduled to visit Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh on October 11, and the Taj Mahal the following day.