India Upgrades Kabul Mission to Embassy Level Amid Shifting Diplomatic Strategy
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has announced the upgrade of its diplomatic mission in Kabul to the status of a full embassy—signaling what appears to be New Delhi’s intent to strengthen ties with Afghanistan.
According to an official statement, the Indian Embassy in Kabul will expand its cooperation with the Afghan population across multiple sectors. While specific details or operational plans have not been disclosed, the ministry emphasized a focus on constructive engagement with the Afghan people.
For the past two decades, India has been a major partner in Afghanistan’s reconstruction. However, following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, India’s diplomatic activities in the country had significantly declined.
The move to elevate the diplomatic mission in Kabul raises questions about how India plans to engage with the Taliban administration. Although India has yet to officially recognize the Taliban government, the decision could indicate a shift in New Delhi’s diplomatic approach. Concerns remain over the potential implications of such moves on human rights and Afghanistan’s political future in the absence of an inclusive and legitimate government.
