In boost to Taliban ties, India joins in with victory day celebrations

NEW DELHI: India has joined in the festivities marking the fifth anniversary of the Taliban's victory in Kabul, following their return to the capital last year after the US-led forces withdrew. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) sent Anand Prakash, a joint secretary who oversees the Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran division, to represent India at the event held at the Afghan embassy. Sneha Dubey, the director of PAI, accompanied Prakash.

India maintains regular engagement with the Taliban at senior official levels and is considering further boosting its development presence in the country. A high-level visit from India to Kabul is likely in the near future. The charge d'affaires of the Afghan embassy, Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor, addressed the gathering of diplomats, including ambassadors from neighboring countries like Iran and Uzbekistan, and other dignitaries.

He emphasized the importance of stronger political trust, economic partnership, and continued engagement between India and Afghanistan, stating that it will benefit both nations and contribute to regional stability and shared prosperity.

Noor also expressed gratitude to the MEA and Minister S Jaishankar for their assistance in protecting the international rights of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and for seeking greater support from India. He hoped that both countries would receive more attention and practical efforts in this regard. India's stance on recognizing the Taliban regime aligns with the international community, but the government allowed Taliban diplomats to take control of the embassy last year and upgraded its mission in Kabul.

Noor highlighted the significant progress in Afghanistan-India relations, noting the expansion of official diplomatic contacts, active embassies and consulates, and high-level delegations exchanging visits. He also emphasized the importance of Afghanistan's geography as a bridge for connectivity, cooperation, and shared prosperity, urging the two countries to focus on mutual interests and avoid negative competition.