Taliban Foreign Minister Outlines Details of Visits to Russia and India
Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of the Taliban administration, has elaborated on the details of his recent visits to Moscow and India during a meeting with officials from the Foreign Ministry. He stated that the Taliban administration officially participated for the first time in the so-called “Moscow Format” meeting.
Muttaqi claimed that representatives from countries such as Russia, China, and some regional states at the meeting expressed support for Afghanistan’s political and economic stability, lifting of sanctions, unfreezing of assets, and enhanced cooperation. However, there was no mention of these countries’ consistent opposition to formally recognizing the Taliban administration.
He added that during the summit, he held separate meetings with Russia’s Foreign Minister and other senior officials, though he did not provide specific details about the content of those discussions.
Regarding his recent trip to India, Muttaqi described it as “historic” and valuable. He said talks with India’s foreign minister focused on strengthening political and economic ties, resolving transit issues at the Wagah port, and increasing cooperation in trade, health, and education sectors.
Muttaqi alleged that India and the Taliban administration agreed to elevate the level of diplomatic relations and establish a joint committee. According to him, discussions with Indian Chamber of Commerce officials included plans to hold joint exhibitions and expand commercial markets for Afghan goods.
He stated that meetings were also held with Indian investors to explore investment opportunities in Afghanistan and to address some of the challenges faced by foreign investors. Muttaqi noted that he also met with Afghan residents and members of the Sikh community in India, during which he defended the achievements of the Taliban administration.
His visit to Darul Uloom Deoband, an influential religious institution in India, was also highlighted. Muttaqi described it as a symbol of historic religious ties between Afghanistan and India and emphasized scientific and Islamic cooperation.
Despite the Taliban administration portraying these visits in a positive light, lack of legitimacy and absence of formal international recognition remain among its major challenges in global relations. International organizations have repeatedly called on the Taliban to uphold human rights, particularly the rights of women and minorities—issues that have received little attention or transparency during such engagements.
