Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s eight-day trip to India from October 9 to 16 signals what officials describe as a “cautious resetting in ties” between New Delhi and Kabul, reported News18.
Citing sources, the report said the visit is intended to “reinforce Afghanistan-India relations” and open a new chapter of engagement after years of strained contact. Muttaqi is expected to meet his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar and may also hold discussions with NSA Ajit Doval during the visit. He will also undergo a medical check-up while in India.
“The visit itself marks a major diplomatic outcome,” Afghan sources told News18, emphasizing that India’s outreach indicates a willingness to reopen official channels. Counter-terrorism cooperation will be a major component of the talks, with Indian officials keen on securing Taliban support in ensuring regional stability.
Bilateral discussions are expected to focus heavily on trade and connectivity. Both sides aim to ease transport barriers and explore new trade corridors to expand commerce in essential goods, textiles, and food products. Expansion of visa quotas -- particularly for traders, families, and medical travelers -- will also be discussed. “The Indian side has always aimed for people-to-people contacts,” officials told News18, noting that scholarships for Afghan students in technical and professional fields could also increase.
The agenda extends beyond trade. Afghanistan seeks India’s assistance in completing unfinished Indian-funded development projects and initiating new ones in sectors like health, water, electricity, and infrastructure. Kabul is also keen to strengthen cooperation in medical services and health missions.
Another key issue on the table is the status of the Chabahar Port. With the U.S. recently withdrawing its waiver on the port, Afghanistan sees its trade interests at risk. Kabul is expected to ask New Delhi to use its diplomatic influence to help secure an exemption from U.S. sanctions, which it views as critical for maintaining access to international markets.
Both sides are also likely to discuss restoring full diplomatic representation--potentially posting ambassadors and expanding consular services in both capitals. The broader security dialogue will include discussions on “the implications of closer Pakistan-U.S. ties” and regional counter-terrorism cooperation.
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