India steps up diplomatic relations with the Taliban as rival Pakistan loses influence in Afghanistan

India’s foreign secretary, Vikram Misri, recently met with acting Afghanistan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations between the two nations. This meeting, the highest-level talks since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, highlights India’s increasing engagement with the Taliban.

The discussions between the two officials focused on strengthening bilateral relations, addressing security concerns, engaging in development projects, and enhancing humanitarian assistance. India has been actively facilitating trade, aid, and medical support to Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. The country has also pledged to provide material support for the rehabilitation of Afghan refugees back in Afghanistan.

One of the key points of discussion was enhancing trade through the Chabahar Port in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province. The development of this port by India aims to provide an alternative route for landlocked Afghanistan to receive and send goods, bypassing ports in rival Pakistan.

The meeting between India and the Taliban has the potential to unsettle Pakistan, as India and Pakistan are long-standing rivals. This comes at a time when relations between the Taliban regime and Pakistan are deteriorating, with cross-border violence escalating.

The diplomatic engagement also follows India’s condemnation of Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan, which resulted in civilian casualties. This incident has further strained relations between India and Pakistan, adding another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics.

Several factors have led India to strengthen its relationship with Afghanistan, including the weakening of Iran’s influence over the Taliban and Russia’s move towards recognizing the Taliban government. Additionally, India may be influenced by the imminent return of President-elect Trump to the White House and the potential implications for the region.

While the United States has severed diplomatic ties with Kabul since its withdrawal from Afghanistan, countries in the region are evaluating the implications of a new Trump administration for the Taliban. India’s engagement with the Taliban reflects its strategic interests in the region and its efforts to safeguard its long-term interests amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.