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India Deepens Engagement with Taliban-Led Afghanistan Amid Shifting Regional Dynamics

New Delhi, October 21, 2025 – In a significant shift in its foreign policy, India is strengthening ties with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, upgrading its “technical mission” in Kabul to embassy status. The move comes after a meeting in New Delhi between Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi.

This development marks a notable change from India’s historical position, particularly considering its concerns about the Taliban’s rise to power in 2021, which was initially viewed as a strategic win for Pakistan, who are believed to have backed the insurgency. India fears Afghanistan under the Taliban could become a base for anti-India militants and a proxy for the Pakistani establishment.

However, analysts suggest India’s engagement is driven by a pragmatic approach. With approximately $3 billion invested in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021, protecting these assets is a key priority. Moreover, ongoing tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan, stemming from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) using Afghan territory as a safe haven, present India with an opportunity to potentially foster greater autonomy within the Taliban from Pakistani influence.

The Hindu’s foreign affairs experts highlight the broader regional context in their “View From India” newsletter. The article notes that Pakistan bombed Kabul during Muttaqi’s visit to India, further illustrating the fluidity of regional relations.

While pursuing closer ties with the Taliban offers strategic advantages, the key question for India remains whether to formally recognize the regime, given the international community’s concerns about the Taliban’s restrictions on women’s rights and education. Experts caution that premature recognition could diminish leverage to encourage reforms within the Taliban.

Other key stories from the region include volatile political dynamics in Bangladesh ahead of the 2026 elections, challenges to the dissolution of parliament in Nepal, and growing defense collaboration between India and Australia.

This deepening engagement with Afghanistan is a complex balancing act, requiring India to navigate its strategic interests while upholding its commitment to humanitarian values and regional stability.

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