Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: In a notable diplomatic development, the Taliban has expressed its intention to renew and normalise ties with India, with an open invitation for Indian investment in Afghanistan’s rebuilding efforts. The remarks by Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen follow a high-level phone conversation between India’s external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Taliban acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi — their first direct contact since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021.
Significant outreach amid regional tensions
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Shaheen, who also serves as the Taliban’s envoy to Qatar, said, “Afghanistan has had historical relations with India, there is a need to renew that and normalise relations. We have a balanced approach policy, and our arms are open for all countries to invest in Afghanistan.” He emphasised Afghanistan’s need for external cooperation, stating, “We are building everything from scratch.”
The diplomatic conversation came at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. It also precedes Muttaqi’s planned visits to Iran and China, and builds on earlier diplomatic engagements, including his January meeting with Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri in Dubai.
India reassures, Taliban denounces terror
Jaishankar reportedly appreciated Muttaqi’s rejection of reports intended to sow distrust between India and Afghanistan, in reference to unsubstantiated claims by Pakistani media alleging Indian-Taliban coordination in false flag operations.
India also responded positively to Taliban condemnation of the Pahalgam attack. The Taliban foreign ministry issued a statement on April 23 denouncing the killings, affirming their stance against acts that destabilise the region.
Trade and humanitarian cooperation in focus
Despite shutting down the Attari border as part of its measures against Pakistan, India made a special exception to allow 160 Afghan trucks carrying dry fruits and nuts into the country. However, sources said Pakistan has stalled their clearance on its side, impeding trade for Afghan exporters.
Indian officials are reportedly reviewing development project proposals in Afghanistan and evaluating support options for Afghan refugees recently expelled from Pakistan. Since 2021, India has supplied over 50,000 tonnes of wheat, 350 tonnes of medicines, 40,000 litres of pesticide, and earthquake relief materials to Afghanistan. In addition, India has offered 2,000 online scholarships to Afghan students.
The Taliban’s diplomatic overture marks a shift in regional engagement, with India cautiously exploring ways to maintain a presence in Afghanistan while countering cross-border terrorism.
