Latest news with #MawlawiAmirKhanMuttaqi
The Star
11 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Afghanistan welcomes upgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan
This handout photograph taken on April 19, 2025, and released by Afghan interim government's Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows its Acting MInister of Foreign Affairs Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi (left) shaking hands with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar upon his arrival for a bilateral meeting in Kabul. HANDOUT/AFGHAN INTERIM GOVERNMENT'S MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS via AFP KABUL: Afghanistan has welcomed the decision to upgrade diplomatic relations with Pakistan, where the Taliban government's foreign minister is due to travel in the coming days, his office said on Saturday (May 31). The move signals easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, as relations between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan - already rocky - have cooled in recent months, fuelled by security concerns and a campaign by Islamabad to expel tens of thousands of Afghans. Pakistan's top diplomat on Friday said the charge d'affaires stationed in Kabul would be elevated to the rank of ambassador, with Kabul later announcing its representative in Islamabad would also be upgraded. "This elevation in diplomatic representation between Afghanistan & Pakistan paves the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in multiple domains," the Aghan foreign ministry said on X. Kabul's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is due to visit Pakistan "in the coming days", ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad Takal told AFP. Muttaqi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in May in Beijing as part of a trilateral meeting with their Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Wang afterwards announced Kabul and Islamabad's intention to exchange ambassadors and expressed Beijing's willingness "to continue to assist with improving Afghanistan-Pakistan ties". Dar hailed the "positive trajectory" of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations on Friday, saying the upgrading of their representatives would "promote further exchanges between two fraternal countries". Only a handful of countries - including China - have agreed to host Taliban government ambassadors since their return to power in 2021, with no country yet formally recognising the administration. Russia last month said it would also accredit a Taliban government ambassador, days after removing the group's "terrorist" designation. - AFP
India.com
3 days ago
- Business
- India.com
BIG setback for Pakistan, China as New Delhi works to build closer India-Afghanistan ties; new visa module allows Afghan citizens to...
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in a meeting with Afghanistan Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai in January 2025. (File/ANI) India-Afghanistan relations: In another major diplomatic jolt for Pakistan and its ally China post Operation Sindoor, New Delhi is working diligently to build closer India-Afghanistan relations as a means to counter Islamabad and Beijing. Addressing the weekly press briefing on Thursday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has implemented a new visa module, which allows Afghan nationals to apply for an Indian visa in six categories. India implements new visa module for Afghans The MEA spokesperson revealed that the old visa module for Afghan nationals has been discontinued, while the new module, aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Afghanistan, came into effect of April 29 last month. Under the new visa module, Afghan citizens can apply for Indian visas under six categories–medical, medical attendant, business, entry, student, and UN diplomatic, Jaiswal said, while urging Afghan nationals who are in India under the old module, to get their visas updated as per the new policy. 'I would like to introduce you to the new visa module in place for Afghan nationals. This was, I think, put in place last month. The old visa module that we had, a program called E-Emergency Ex-Miscelleanous Visa, has been discontinued, and we have a new visa model for Afghan nationals, which came into effect on 29th April,' he said. New Delhi working to build closer India-Afghanistan relations Notably, India had suspended visas for Afghan citizens after Taliban regime seized power in June 2021 after the United States withdrew from the war-torn country. However, New Delhi recently visa services for Afghan nationals after a four-year hiatus, in an effort to build closer ties with Kabul, primarily as a means to counter the growing influence of Pakistan and China in the region. Additionally, India has resumed re-established its diplomatic presence in Kabul and is actively engaging with ruling Afghan Taliban regime, which was one of the few nations that openly supported New Delhi in the recent India-Pakistan conflict and condemned the heinous Pahalgam terror attack in the strongest terms. EAM Jaishankar talks to Afghan FM Muttaqi Earlier this month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between India and Afghanistan. Jaishankar also expressed his appreciation for Muttaqi's strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, and welcomed the Taliban minister's 'firm rejection' of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through 'false and baseless reports.' 'Good conversation with Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi this evening. Deeply appreciate his condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Welcomed his firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports. Underlined our traditional friendship with the Afghan people and our continuing support for their development needs. Discussed ways and means of taking cooperation forward,' Jaishankar wrote on X following the conversation with Muttaqi. (With inputs from agencies)
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
"New visa module for Afghan nationals, people can apply in six categories": MEA
New Delhi [India], May 29 (ANI): India implemented a new visa module for Afghan nationals on April 29, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday. Jaiswal said the new visa module will help to further strengthen people-to-people ties between India and Afghanistan. While addressing a press briefing on Thursday, Jaiswal noted that the old visa module for Afghan nationals has been discontinued. He said that Afghan nationals can apply for Indian visas in six categories--medical, medical attendant, business, entry, student, and UN diplomatic. He asked those who are in India as per the old policy to get it converted as per the new policy. When asked whether India has implemented a new visa module for Afghan nationals, the MEA spokesperson stated, 'I would like to introduce you to the new visa module in place for Afghan nationals. This was, I think, put in place last month. The old visa module that we had, a program called E-Emergency Ex-Miscelleanous Visa, has been discontinued, and we have a new visa model for Afghan nationals, which came into effect on 29th April, so last month, 29th April.' India has recently resumed issuing visas to Afghan nationals after a four-year hiatus, following the Taliban's takeover in August 2021. This move allows Afghan nationals to apply for various visa categories, including student, business, medical, medical attendant, entry, and UN diplomat visas. 'All Afghan nationals can now apply for an Indian visa in six categories: medical visa, medical attendant visa, business visa, entry visa, student visa, and UN diplomatic visa. Afghan nationals who are in India on visas that were issued as per the old policy will have to now get it converted as per the new policy. They will have to approach the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) here in Delhi or any other part of India, as the case may be. The new visa module will help strengthen India-Afghanistan people-to-people ties further,' he added. India had previously suspended visa services to Afghan nationals after the Taliban seized power, with concerns over the safety of Indian officials in Kabul. However, India has now re-established its diplomatic presence in Kabul and is actively engaging with the Taliban administration. The decision follows growing diplomatic engagement between India and Afghanistan. Earlier on May 15, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between India and Afghanistan. Jaishankar also expressed his appreciation for Muttaqi's strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. He also welcomed the Afghan minister's 'firm rejection' of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports. In a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, 'Good conversation with Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi this evening. Deeply appreciate his condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.'The post added, 'Welcomed his firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports. Underlined our traditional friendship with the Afghan people and our continuing support for their development needs. Discussed ways and means of taking cooperation forward.' Both leaders also emphasised the importance of enhancing economic ties, with particular focus on developing the Chabahar Port, facilitating visas for Afghan traders and patients, and addressing the issue of Afghan prisoners in India. Sharing a post on X, the Consulate General of Afghanistan in Mumbai wrote, 'The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, held a telephonic conversation with Dr. S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister of India. During the discussion, both sides exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations, promoting trade, and advancing diplomatic engagement.' 'FM Muttaqi referred to India as a key regional country and highlighted the historic nature of Afghanistan-India relations, expressing optimism that these ties will grow stronger. He also reiterated Afghanistan's commitment to a balanced foreign policy and the pursuit of constructive relations with all nations. In the conversation, FM Muttaqi requested facilitation in issuing visas for Afghan traders and patients, and called for the release and return of Afghan prisoners currently held in India,' the post added. The post further said, 'EAM Dr Jaishankar echoed the view that India shares historic ties with Afghanistan and reaffirmed India's intention to continue its cooperation with the country. He underlined the importance of collaboration in political and economic spheres. Dr. Jaishankar also assured prompt attention to the issue of Afghan prisoners and pledged to streamline the visa process. Additionally, both sides emphasised the development of the Chabahar Port.' (ANI)
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First Post
6 days ago
- Business
- First Post
India's evolving Afghan policy: From humanitarian outreach to strategic diplomacy
India's renewed engagement with Taliban-ruled Afghanistan reflects a pragmatic shift in its regional policy, blending humanitarian outreach with strategic diplomacy to safeguard national interests read more Afghanistan, long regarded as the heart of Asia, must not be a blind spot in India's foreign policy. Image: REUTERS Amid ongoing heightened tensions with Pakistan, New Delhi has recently taken a significant step in its diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan by permitting 160 Afghan trucks to cross the Attari-Wagah border via Pakistan. These trucks, carrying dry fruits, liquorice, and other agricultural products, had been stranded following the border closure after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025. India's decision to grant special entry to these trucks through the Integrated Check Post at Attari underscores its enduring commitment to humanitarian and commercial ties with the Afghan people. This move, made during a time of intensified crisis, reflects a pragmatic and forward-looking approach in India's regional diplomacy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This development came shortly after a historic phone conversation between India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, and Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. This was the first formal ministerial-level engagement between India and the Taliban leadership since 1999, marking a new chapter in India-Afghanistan relations. Following the conversation, Jaishankar publicly acknowledged on X (formerly Twitter) the Taliban leadership's strong condemnation of the recent Pahalgam terror attack. He tweeted, 'Good conversation with Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi this evening. Deeply appreciate his condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.' Jaishankar also appreciated their firm rejection of attempts to sow disinformation aimed at disrupting Indo-Afghan ties. He reaffirmed India's historical and steadfast friendship with the Afghan people and reiterated India's commitment to support Afghanistan's development. The two ministers discussed possibilities for enhanced bilateral cooperation, symbolising a maturing diplomatic approach and a realistic recalibration of India's regional outreach. In the aftermath of the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack, India had dispatched a high-level delegation to Kabul to directly engage with the Taliban administration and express concerns over Pakistan-sponsored activities in the region. The delegation, led by MEA Joint Secretary Anand Prakash, met with Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, who unequivocally condemned the attack, stating, 'We unequivocally condemn the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Such acts of violence undermine efforts for regional security and stability. Afghanistan remains committed to combating terrorism and working closely with India to promote peace and cooperation in the region.' He also emphasised the need to bring the perpetrators to justice, underscoring Afghanistan's dedication to ensuring both justice and regional peace. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This diplomatic outreach signals India's intent to address security concerns through direct cooperation with Afghan authorities, marking a strategic move towards more open and pragmatic regional collaboration rather than reliance on intermediaries. Demonstrating diplomatic maturity, the Taliban also categorically rejected Pakistan's allegations that Indian missiles were launched into Afghan territory. On May 10, 2025, Taliban Defence Ministry spokesperson Enayatullah Khawarzmi dismissed these claims as 'false' and 'unfounded', asserting that 'Afghanistan is safe and secure, and no such incident has occurred'. This firm rebuttal underscores the Taliban's intent to maintain an independent and constructive relationship with India. Moreover, the Taliban has consistently assured New Delhi that Afghan soil will not be used for activities against Indian interests. In previous engagements, senior Taliban leaders, including acting Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqub Mujahid, have reiterated their commitment to addressing India's legitimate security concerns. Afghan authorities have also extended repeated invitations for greater Indian investment in Afghanistan's reconstruction and development, underscoring their appreciation for India's enduring contributions to Afghan infrastructure, education, and healthcare sectors. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India's approach towards Afghanistan has always been developmental, constructive, and people-centric—markedly different from the strategic depth policy adopted by some regional players. It is precisely this consistent and positive engagement that has earned India unprecedented goodwill among the Afghan population. Over the years, India has built over 200 schools, funded major infrastructure projects like the Afghan Parliament building and the Zaranj-Delaram Highway, and provided more than 1,000 scholarships for Afghan students. Additionally, India has played a pivotal role in enhancing Afghanistan's healthcare sector by constructing and restoring hospitals and health centres. Notably, the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Kabul, established with Indian assistance in the 1970s, serves as the country's primary paediatric hospital, treating approximately 300,000 children annually. Unlike in some neighbouring countries where anti-India sentiment persists, the Afghan people have historically expressed deep affection and admiration for India. This makes Afghanistan uniquely positioned as a partner where India does not have to exert excessive diplomatic effort to win hearts—it already enjoys considerable public support. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Engaging with the Taliban, therefore, is not a concession but a reflection of India's evolving strategic realism. If global powers like the United States can engage with controversial actors—such as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani in Syria, who was on the US Rewards for Justice list with a $10 million bounty until December 2024—India should not hesitate to advance its national interests through constructive dialogue with the current Afghan leadership. Prioritising national interest means proactively shaping bilateral relationships rather than waiting for others—such as China or other such inimical countries—to take the lead. India now needs to go beyond developmental aid and public diplomacy. It should pursue formal diplomatic recognition of the Taliban government, initiate high-level strategic dialogues, and consider signing agreements on intelligence cooperation and regional security. Afghanistan's geography continues to offer both challenges and strategic opportunities. As a land bridge to Central Asia and a buffer against growing Chinese influence in the region, Afghanistan is too important for India to ignore. Historically, its geostrategic location has made it a focal point for great power competition—during the Cold War, both the Soviet Union and the United States vied for influence in Kabul, underscoring its enduring importance as a geopolitical pivot. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India must go beyond symbolic outreach and resist the tendency—rooted in its broader strategic culture—of adopting a reactionary foreign policy. Historically, India has often responded to developments only after other major geopolitical players have acted; for instance, its maritime engagement in the Indian Ocean gained momentum largely in response to China's expanding geostrategic presence. In the Afghan context, India should break from this pattern. Rather than allowing external powers to shape the strategic landscape, India must lead from the front. Its approach should be guided solely by its national interests, which must serve as the primary determinant in its regional strategy. Importantly, in the case of Afghanistan, India's outreach is made easier by the unprecedented goodwill it already enjoys among the Afghan people—what is needed now is strategic clarity and political will. Deepening political engagement with Afghanistan not only aligns with India's long-term strategic objectives but also enhances its influence in a region that remains a critical pivot in Asian geopolitics. This also serves the broader objective of countering destabilising influences in the region and strengthening India's position in South and Central Asia. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Proactive engagement can help stabilise the region, moderate radical narratives, and reinforce India's image as a responsible and forward-looking power committed to peace and development. Afghanistan, long regarded as the heart of Asia, must not be a blind spot in India's foreign policy. Rather, it should be an arena where New Delhi asserts its values and interests with confidence and clarity. Imran Khurshid is a visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
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First Post
21-05-2025
- Business
- First Post
Taliban eager, India can help Afghanistan reduce dependence on Pak via Iran's Chabahar Port
Chabahar Port serves as a crucial transportation hub between Afghanistan, India, and Iran. Taliban representatives have reportedly already visited Tehran to talk about Kabul's involvement in the project read more With Afghanistan's relations with Pakistan worsening, the Taliban has begun to cosy up to India, despite the strained relationship between New Delhi and Islamabad. In an effort to lessen reliance on Pakistani ports, the Taliban government has chosen to concentrate on Iran's Chabahar Port, which is run by India and is considering joining the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), according to a report by The Economic Times. The Chabahar Port project encountered major obstacles after the Taliban seized power in Kabul in 2021. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, as tensions between Kabul and Islamabad grew—particularly when Pakistan started expelling Afghan refugees—the Taliban began to move more towards collaborating with Iran and India, according to sources familiar with the situation. The port serves as a crucial transportation hub between Afghanistan, India, and Iran. Taliban representatives have reportedly already visited Tehran to talk about Kabul's involvement in the project. According to Russia's leading think tank, the Valdai Club, which has close links to the Kremlin, the Taliban is attempting to project a message of independence from Pakistan by boosting its involvement in the Chabahar Port project, the report stated. As part of its plan to increase its regional influence, Iran is also seeking to include Afghanistan in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's recent meeting with acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi was the first formal engagement between an Indian and a Taliban minister since 1999, indicating a shift in regional geopolitics. In May of last year, India and Iran struck a 10-year deal for the development and management of the Iran's Chabahar Port. Chabahar Port is Iran's first deepwater port and is about 72 km from China-run Gwadar Port in Pakistan. Managing commerce between India, Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Eurasian area depends heavily on the two nations' flagship project. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In addition, the project created a sea-trade link that would allow India to reach the Afghan market and vice versa, avoiding Pakistan's ports of Gwadar and Karachi, as Pakistan had refused India a direct land route to Afghanistan. However, considering India's resistance to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), it also has significant importance for its trade aspirations throughout Central Asia. Iran and the Taliban seem dedicated to developing the port as a vital transit hub connecting Afghanistan to international markets, according to the Afghanistan Times, even if US sanctions reinstated under President Trump might make it more difficult for larger involvement in the Chabahar project. Kabul also contributed $35 million.
