Quick insights
- Afghanistan’s Taliban Amir Khan Muttaqi landsIndia, the first top Taliban leader since 2021.
- Meetings with Indian leaders and visits to cultural and religious sites highlight a mix of diplomacy and symbolism.
- India balances humanitarian aid and regional strategy without officially recognizing the Taliban.
- The arrival of Taliban minister sparks debate: strategic engagement or a risky political gamble?
New Delhi | Oct 10, 2025 — In a move that has captured global attention, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in India on Thursday, marking the first visit by a top Taliban leader since their return to power in 2021. India’s warm reception signals an effort to balance humanitarian priorities with strategic diplomacy in a region full with uncertainty.
Diplomacy on a Tightrope
Muttaqi’s six-day trip is carefully scripted: meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval, along with visits to Darul Uloom Deoband and the Taj Mahal. While India emphasizes humanitarian and developmental cooperation international eyes are watching, the Taliban remain unrecognized by most countries, and sanctions continue to threaten the visit.
The UN Security Council granted a temporary travel extension, allowing Muttaqi to finally step on Indian soil after previous delays.
Stakes Beyond Borders
India has been a consistent supporter of Afghan humanitarian aid, hosting refugees and providing earthquake relief. Muttaqi’s visit raises critical questions:
- Can India deepen engagement without validating the Taliban politically?
- Will talks lead to long-term cooperation on development and counter-terrorism?
- How will the visit reshape India’s regional strategy amid competing powers like Russia, China, and Pakistan?
Every handshake, every tour, every meeting is being analyzed – a delicate dance of diplomacy and strategy.
Realism or Risky Gamble?
Share Your ThoughtsIs India’s engagement a necessary move for regional stability, or a political risk that could backfire internationally?What do you think? Write your opinion in the comments below.
