India has officially upgraded its Technical Mission in Kabul into a full-fledged embassy, marking the restoration of formal diplomatic ties with Taliban-administered Afghanistan.
Background
- India shut down its embassy in Kabul in August 2021 after the Taliban takeover led to the collapse of the Ashraf Ghani government and a breakdown in security.
- To maintain limited engagement, India later deployed a Technical Mission in June 2022, primarily to oversee humanitarian aid and consular services.
- This upgrade comes soon after Qatar also re-established its full diplomatic presence in Kabul, introducing its ambassador and special representative.
Restoration of Diplomatic Links
- India’s Technical Mission has now been converted into a full embassy with the appointment of a Chargé d’affaires (CDA) to represent India officially.
- The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the embassy will focus on humanitarian aid, development cooperation, and capacity building for Afghan citizens.
Taliban’s Response
- Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen welcomed the move, stating it will “build trust, enhance trade, and promote regional peace.”
- Another spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, also appreciated India and Qatar’s diplomatic initiatives as positive steps for Afghanistan’s global engagement.
Strategic Significance
- The decision reflects India’s pragmatic foreign policy of re-engaging with Afghanistan while balancing humanitarian concerns and regional security.
- It also opens space for India to counter Pakistan and China’s influence in the region and re-establish people-to-people and development ties.
Significance
- India’s return marks a shift from isolation to cautious engagement with the Taliban regime.
- It reinforces India’s role in regional peace, stability, and reconstruction of Afghanistan.
Conclusion
India’s diplomatic revival in Kabul underscores its intent to stay engaged with Afghanistan’s evolving political reality while supporting the Afghan people through development and humanitarian cooperation.
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