NEW DELHI: Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's visit to India from October 9 marks a carefully calibrated shift in New Delhi's approach to the Taliban regime in Kabul. Though India has yet to formally recognise the Taliban government, the visit signals a pragmatic thaw that can lead to a cautious reset in relations.

Muttaqi's meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and possibly National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is aimed at strengthening the official channels of communication on a host of issues. Muttaqi will also undergo a medical check-up during his time in India.

The very fact of the visit constitutes a major diplomatic outcome. Indian sources said this is an opportunity to re-engage on terms defined by India’s core interests -- regional stability,

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