Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is set to visit India next week, marking the first high-level meeting between the two since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. His visit is scheduled for October 9-10 and comes after he received a temporary travel exemption from UN Security Council sanctions, which had previously hindered his international travel plans.

Muttaqi's trip is significant as it reflects a shift in India-Taliban relations, which have been limited since the Taliban's takeover. India has focused on humanitarian aid and maintaining people-to-people connections while expressing concerns over terrorism and the rights of women and minorities in Afghanistan. The Taliban regained power in August 2021 after a swift military offensive that led to the collapse of the Afghan government.

Before arriving in India, Muttaqi will participate in the “Moscow Format” talks in Russia on October 6, marking the first time the Taliban will attend as a member rather than a guest. He described this development as an “important step” towards strengthening trust and improving ties with neighboring countries.

India has been cautious in its approach, refraining from formally recognizing the Taliban regime. However, it has maintained regular contact, reopening its embassy in Kabul and providing humanitarian assistance, especially following a recent earthquake in Afghanistan. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has communicated with Muttaqi on multiple occasions, discussing India's support for Afghanistan's urgent developmental needs.

The visit is seen as a potential turning point in India-Afghanistan relations, especially as tensions rise between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Taliban has accused Pakistan of conducting cross-border attacks and sheltering anti-Taliban militants. As the situation evolves, both nations are looking to enhance diplomatic ties, with the possibility of the Taliban taking over the management of Afghanistan's embassy in New Delhi in the near future. This visit could pave the way for deeper engagement between India and the Taliban, balancing humanitarian support with global concerns regarding recognition and sanctions.