India has officially upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to the status of a full-fledged embassy. This pivotal decision, announced on Friday, marks a significant move towards re-establishing India’s diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan. The announcement occurred during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi.
India withdrew all officials from its Kabul embassy after the Taliban takeover in August 2021. A “technical team” was redeployed in June 2022 to facilitate limited operations. With this recent upgrade, India aims to deepen its engagement with Afghanistan by focusing on humanitarian aid, infrastructure development, and regional security cooperation.
“Your visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan,” Jaishankar stated during his opening remarks. He emphasized India’s intrinsic interest in the development and progress of Afghanistan, describing the country as a contiguous neighbor and a well-wisher of the Afghan people.
The minister reiterated that India’s long-standing partnership with Afghanistan, which has seen the execution of significant projects, remains renewed. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for the Taliban’s administration for showing “sensitivity towards India’s security concerns,” particularly in light of recent incidents, including the Pahalgam terror attack.
“Both India and Afghanistan share a common commitment to growth, stability, and prosperity,” he stated, noting that they also face a mutual challenge from cross-border terrorism. “We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar urged.
Amir Khan Muttaqi commended India as an essential regional country that has consistently supported the Afghan populace. He expressed gratitude for India’s humanitarian assistance and reiterated Kabul’s eagerness to expand cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and education.
The upgrade of India’s diplomatic mission in Kabul signifies New Delhi’s carefully calculated but strategic re-engagement with the Taliban-led government. This move is driven by critical security concerns, regional stability, and an historical commitment to the Afghan people.
