India Upgrades Kabul Mission to Embassy

Jaishankar–Muttaqi Talks Signal India’s Return to Kabul Embassy

1. Background of India’s Diplomatic Presence in Afghanistan

India maintained a full-fledged embassy in Kabul until 2021, when it was closed following the Taliban’s takeover after the withdrawal of U.S. forces. To sustain limited contact and humanitarian efforts, India later opened a smaller “technical mission” in Kabul.

2. What Decision Has India Announced Now?

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that India’s technical mission in Kabul will be upgraded to the status of an embassy, marking a major step toward restoring full diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan.

3. Why Is This Upgrade Important?

The upgrade demonstrates India’s commitment to regional stability and its willingness to engage constructively with Afghanistan on development, education, and counterterrorism initiatives. It also reflects growing confidence in the security environment within Kabul.

4. Key Points from Jaishankar’s Meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi

During the meeting, both leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing humanitarian cooperation, and addressing shared concerns such as cross-border terrorism. Mr. Jaishankar also raised concerns about Pakistan’s forced repatriation of Afghan refugees, describing it as a humanitarian issue.

5. Taliban Administration’s Response

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi welcomed India’s decision, stating that Afghanistan plans to send diplomats to India in return. While an ambassador may not be appointed immediately, the Taliban expressed optimism about long-term diplomatic cooperation.

6. India’s Development Plans for Afghanistan

India announced six new health projects and plans to provide 20 additional scholarships to Afghan students under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). It also invited Indian firms to participate in reconstruction and investment initiatives in Afghanistan.

7. Current Tensions Between the Taliban and Pakistan

The Taliban accused Pakistan of violating Afghanistan’s sovereignty after a reported cross-border incursion linked to the killing of a Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leader. This public accusation marks a significant downturn in Kabul-Islamabad relations.

8. India’s Concern Over Pakistan’s Actions

India has criticized Pakistan’s forced deportation of Afghan refugees and its continued support for terror groups. Mr. Jaishankar emphasized that such actions undermine regional peace and threaten both Indian and Afghan security interests.

9. Strategic Benefits for India

Reopening the Kabul embassy enhances India’s ability to monitor regional developments, maintain diplomatic communication, safeguard its infrastructure projects, and counterbalance the growing influence of China and Russia in Afghanistan.

10. What This Development Signifies

This move marks a step toward normalizing India-Afghanistan relations through practical cooperation rather than political recognition. It signals India’s commitment to rebuilding trust, supporting Afghan development, and promoting long-term stability in the region.