UN Clearance Enables Afghan Foreign Minister’s First Visit to India

 International Desk | PNN

Afghanistan’s UN-sanctioned Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaki has visited India for the first time, marking the top Taliban leader’s inaugural trip to India since the Taliban regained power in 2021. This visit is being seen as a significant shift in South Asia’s diplomatic balance.

On Thursday, Muttaki’s visit was made possible through a special travel clearance from the United Nations Security Council. Analysts suggest that this visit could have a profound impact on the diplomatic landscape of regional powers, including Pakistan, especially as New Delhi gradually strengthens ties with the Taliban administration.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randeep Jaiswal said, “We look forward to constructive discussions on bilateral relations and regional issues.” Previously, Muttaki had met Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Dubai. This time, he is scheduled to meet India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.

Although neither side has disclosed the exact agenda, diplomatic sources indicate that trade and security issues will be the main focus of discussions. India has not yet formally recognized the Taliban government, but humanitarian assistance programs are ongoing in Kabul.

Muttaki arrived in India after a visit to Russia. Notably, Russia remains the only country to have formally recognized the Taliban administration. During his Moscow visit, he participated in a regional meeting, where India, Pakistan, China, Iran, and several Central Asian countries opposed the establishment of foreign military bases.

Political analysts suggest that Muttaki’s visit is part of the Taliban government’s efforts to gain international legitimacy. Diplomatically, it signals a new reality in South Asia’s geopolitics.