India Interested In Enhancing Political Ties With Taliban, Says Group’s Foreign Ministry

Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban's Foreign Minister, engaged in talks with JP Singh, the head of the Afghanistan and Pakistan Division of India's Foreign Ministry, in Kabul.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Taliban's Foreign Ministry highlighted India's desire to deepen political and economic ties with the Taliban government.

The discussions between Muttaqi and Singh focused on the bilateral relations between the Taliban and India, alongside economic and transit-related matters. Notably, India expressed its support for bolstering trade between the two nations via the Chabahar port.

The statement from the Taliban Foreign Ministry also mentioned the Indian official's commendation for the Taliban's efforts against ISIS, corruption, and drug trafficking.

Muttaqi articulated the Taliban's ambition for a 'balanced foreign policy' aimed at solidifying political and economic ties with India. He urged India to simplify visa procedures for Afghan businessmen, patients, and students.

Furthermore, JP Singh's visit included meetings with Hamid Karzai, the former president, and Nooruddin Azizi, the Taliban's Minister of Industry and Commerce.

Despite not officially recognizing the Taliban government, India initiated informal engagements with the Taliban shortly after the previous Afghan government was overthrown.