Amid ongoing diplomatic friction between India and Pakistan, India’s Special Envoy Anand Prakash visited Kabul to meet with the Taliban leadership.
Anand Prakash, who is also the Director General of the Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan Department at India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), held discussions with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi.
The meeting primarily focused on strengthening bilateral political relations, boosting trade and transit cooperation, and exchanging perspectives on recent regional developments.
Both sides underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral engagements, simplifying visa procedures, and fostering exchange of delegations. They also discussed potential areas for cooperation across various fields.
The meeting takes place in the backdrop of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists.
In response, India had downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, further complicating regional dynamics.
During the meeting, Afghanistan's Foreign Minister reiterated the need for facilitating the movement of people between the two countries, specifically calling for the normalisation of visa issuance processes for businessmen, patients, and students.
Anand Prakash expressed India’s commitment to furthering cooperation with Afghanistan and emphasized India's intention to continue its assistance to the country. He also highlighted India’s interest in investing in infrastructure projects, including the revival of previously halted initiatives.
This diplomatic engagement highlights India's desire to strengthen ties with Afghanistan, despite regional complexities, and to maintain its role in aiding Afghanistan’s development.
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