India & Taliban Hold First-Ever Diplomatic Call After Pahalgam Attack

In a significant development, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had his first-ever conversation with Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, on Thursday. This marks the first official political contact between the two countries since the Taliban seized power in Kabul in August 2021.

During the call, Jaishankar emphasized India’s long-standing relationship with the Afghan people and reaffirmed India’s continued support for Afghanistan’s development. He also welcomed Muttaqi’s condemnation of the recent Pahalgam terror attack in India, a gesture Jaishankar deeply appreciated.

India’s Stance on Afghanistan

While India has not officially recognized the Taliban government, it has consistently called for a truly inclusive Afghan government. New Delhi has also maintained its stance that Afghan territory should not be used for terrorism against any nation.

A Step Towards Reconciliation?

This phone conversation comes just days after India and Pakistan agreed to halt military operations following Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam attack. The Taliban-led government in Kabul had also condemned the attack. Jaishankar’s call with Muttaqi signifies a potential step towards reconciliation and dialogue between India and the Taliban regime.

The conversation also builds upon a previous meeting between India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Muttaqi in Dubai four months ago.