Decoding India’s Diplomatic Strategy: Navigating Relations with the Taliban

New Delhi: India’s approach to Afghanistan is shifting. This week, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke directly with the Taliban’s Acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. This conversation came just weeks after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that took 26 lives.

Muttaqi condemned the attack, which is crucial for India. It opens a door for New Delhi to express its concerns about terrorism. Although India is not ready to formally recognize the Taliban, it is seeking practical ways to engage with them. The goal? To ensure that Afghanistan doesn’t become a safe haven for anti-India activities.

Jaishankar shared his thoughts on social media, highlighting their conversation’s positive aspects. He appreciated Muttaqi’s condemnation of the terrorist act, emphasizing India’s longstanding friendship with the Afghan people and their commitment to support their development.

The Afghan Foreign Ministry reiterated the importance of strengthening ties, improving trade, and enhancing diplomatic relations. Muttaqi even asked India to ease visa processes for Afghan businessmen and patients, as well as expedite the repatriation of Afghan prisoners.

This marks the first direct dialogue between India’s External Affairs Minister and the Taliban since their return to power in August 2021. The last high-profile interaction happened in 1999 during a crisis involving an Indian Airlines flight hijacking.

India’s diplomatic stance has changed significantly since the Taliban regained control. Early on, India was cautious. However, over the last two years, it has moved towards a more open engagement with the Taliban. This shift mainly stems from a need for regional stability and security.

In June 2022, India reopened its diplomatic mission in Kabul with a “technical team,” showing a willingness to interact while not officially recognizing the Taliban. There have been several discussions focused on humanitarian aid and infrastructure projects.

In January 2023, India’s Foreign Secretary met Muttaqi in Dubai to address issues around their bilateral relationship. Both sides acknowledged the importance of maintaining contact to address mutual concerns.

India’s strategy also aims to avoid falling behind its competitors. Countries like Pakistan and China are strengthening their presence in Afghanistan. According to Abhinav Pandya, an expert at Usanas Foundation, India needs to build relationships to counter Pakistan’s influence. He advocates for continued humanitarian support to Afghanistan, including food supplies, to stabilize the region.

Smruti Pattanaik, a researcher at the Manohar Parrikar Institute, noted that India’s engagement with the Taliban has evolved since 2021. Unlike in the past, the Taliban are now open to discussions with India, especially given their strained ties with Pakistan. Afganistan could be a strategic bridge between India and Central Asia.

In summary, India’s recent outreach to the Taliban reveals a shift in its foreign policy, focusing on national security and regional stability. As the situation in Afghanistan remains unstable, this approach may prove to be the most effective way to navigate the risks while preserving India’s interests.

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