In the 1990s, the Taliban failed to earn legitimacy. This time, their priority is to get recognised by regional countries. That’s why they are reaching out to countries like India, says Nilofar Sakhi , associate research professor at the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University and president of the Andiana Foundation.

In an interview with The Hindu , Dr. Sakhi said economic pain and social repression within Afghanistan are leading to widespread discontent among Afghan people towards the Taliban regime.

Edited excerpts.

Taliban’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi recently concluded his visit to India. In the 1990s, India had supported the anti-Taliban forces. And this time, both India and the Taliban show interest in mutual engagement. How do you loo

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