A Taliban Diplomat in Delhi? What It Signals About India-Afghanistan Ties

New Delhi: India and Afghanistan are set to strengthen diplomatic ties with the Taliban regime, preparing to appoint a diplomat to New Delhi this month -- the first such posting since their return to power

in Kabul in August 2021. According to communications from Kabul, a second diplomat is expected to be appointed by late December or early January. The ties between India and Afghanistan progressed after Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi visited India last month. India has reaffirmed its position as a reliable partner to Afghanistan by continuing to provide humanitarian aid and medical supplies, despite not officially recognising the Taliban-led government in Kabul.During Muttaqi’s visit, India announced plans to upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to embassy level and agreed to accredit Taliban-appointed diplomats. Both countries are expected to have a chargé d’affaires heading their respective missions soon.A Taliban spokesperson on Sunday thanked India for donating more than 16 tonnes of medicines used to combat vector-borne diseases. "This latest donation underscores India's longstanding partnership and developmental support to Afghanistan. By contributing essential medical supplies, India reaffirms its role as a reliable partner in promoting health, stability and humanitarian cooperation in the region," he said.Muttaqi’s visit was notable as the Taliban publicly affirmed support for India’s sovereignty over Jammu and Kashmir. India, in turn, reiterated its commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity at a time when Taliban-Pakistan relations have reached a low point amid intense border clashes. Although both sides have agreed to a ceasefire, tensions remain high. Earlier this week, the Taliban accused Pakistan of attempting to destabilise Afghanistan to pave the way for a possible US return to the Bagram airbase.