India to elevate its technical mission in Kabul to Embassy status, reaffirming deeper engagement with Afghanistan.
New Delhi
India will upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged Embassy, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced on Friday after meeting Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi.
Mr. Jaishankar said India remained committed to Afghanistan’s sovereignty and development, calling the move a step to strengthen regional stability. “To enhance our cooperation, I am pleased to announce today the upgrading of India’s Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of Embassy of India,” he said.
He also expressed concern over the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan, promising India’s assistance in constructing housing and providing humanitarian aid.
Jaishankar highlighted cross-border terrorism as a shared threat and urged closer coordination with Kabul. Hours before their meeting, a bombing in Kabul reportedly killed TTP leader Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud, though the group denied it.
Appreciating Afghanistan’s condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack in April that killed 26 people, he said New Delhi had expanded visa access for Afghan nationals, including medical, business and student categories.
India had evacuated its diplomats from Afghanistan in August 2021 after the Taliban takeover but reopened a technical mission in June 2022.
Mr. Jaishankar announced six new health projects, the donation of 20 ambulances, and the supply of MRI, CT scan machines, vaccines and cancer drugs to Afghanistan, reaffirming India’s role in reconstruction and humanitarian support.
Key Takeaways from Jaishankar–Muttaqi Talks
1. Embassy Upgrade
“India is fully committed to Afghanistan’s sovereignty, upgrading technical mission in Kabul to the Embassy of India.”
2. Strengthening Ties
The visit marks an important step in advancing ties and affirming enduring friendship.
3. Development Partnership
As a contiguous neighbour, India reaffirms its partnership to maintain and complete development projects.
Medical Aid
India commits six new health projects, 20 ambulances, MRI & CT machines, vaccines, and cancer medicines.
Security & Terrorism
Cooordination to combat cross-border terrorism and safeguard shared prosperity.
