India Set to Reopen Embassy in Kabul as Jaishankar Meets Taliban Foreign Minister Amid Tensions with Pakistan

In a landmark diplomatic move, India is preparing to reopen its embassy in Kabul, signalling a major shift in ties with Afghanistan’s Taliban regime. The announcement came after a high-level meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi — the most significant engagement since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021.

Jaishankar confirmed that India’s technical mission in Kabul will be upgraded to a full-fledged embassy, marking a new chapter in India-Afghanistan relations.

“India is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan,” Jaishankar stated, reaffirming India’s long-standing support for the Afghan people.

This development comes against the backdrop of strained Pakistan-Taliban relations, including Islamabad’s crackdown on Afghan refugees and increasing border tensions — a situation that has opened diplomatic space for India to deepen engagement with Kabul.

India had shut down its embassy and consulates in 2021 following the Taliban’s return to power, later sending a technical team in 2022 to oversee humanitarian and developmental efforts.

During the meeting, Jaishankar emphasised the importance of joint action against cross-border terrorism, subtly referencing Pakistan.

“Our nations share the threat of cross-border terrorism. We must coordinate efforts to combat it in all its forms,” he said, adding that Afghanistan’s security and stability are vital for regional prosperity.

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi welcomed India’s move to reopen the embassy and expressed a desire for stronger bilateral ties based on mutual respect, trade, and cultural exchanges.

“Afghanistan looks at India as a close friend. We will not allow our territory to be used against others,” Muttaqi asserted — a pointed message aimed at Pakistan.

Muttaqi also invited Indian companies to explore mining opportunities in Afghanistan, underscoring Kabul’s interest in expanding economic cooperation beyond politics.

Jaishankar acknowledged the gesture, noting,

“We deeply appreciate your invitation to Indian companies to explore mining opportunities. Trade and development are shared goals for both our nations.”

With the embassy reopening on the horizon, this move marks a strategic recalibration in India’s neighbourhood diplomacy, positioning New Delhi as a key regional player amid Afghanistan’s evolving geopolitical dynamics.