NEW DELHI: India and Afghanistan are set to further ramp up their diplomatic relations with the appointment of a diplomat by the Taliban regime here this month. This will be the first official placement of a diplomat by the Taliban in India since their return to Kabul in August 2021 and will be followed – as conveyed by Kabul to Indian authorities – by the appointment of another diplomat in late December or early January.The relationship has progressed steadily this year, culminating in an unprecedented visit by foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India last month. India has reinforced its role as a trusted partner of Afghanistan with its continued supply of aid and medical supplies to the country, even in the absence of an official recognition by the Indian govt of the dispensation in Kabul.
Muttaqi’s visit saw India announcing its decision to upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to the level of embassy and also agreeing to accept Taliban diplomats. Both sides are expected to soon have a charge d’affaires leading their respective missions.A Taliban spokesperson on Sunday expressed appreciation for India’s donation of over 16 tonnes of anti-vector-borne disease medicines. “This latest donation underscores India’s longstanding partnership and developmental support to Afghanistan. By contributing essential medical supplies, India reaffirms its role as a reliable partner in promoting health, stability and humanitarian cooperation in the region,” he said. Muttaqi’s visit was significant as it also saw the Taliban backing India’s sovereignty over J&K. India too has firmly supported Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, at a time the Taliban’s ties with Pakistan have hit a nadir because of heavy border clashes. The two countries have reached a ceasefire but the threat of an escalation is yet to fully dissipate. The Taliban this week accused Pakistan of working to create chaos in Afghanistan that would allow the US to return and take over Bagram airbase.
