Afghanistan’s ruling authorities have taken a key diplomatic step by appointing their first senior representative to India since returning to power in 2021. The move signals a cautious but notable shift in regional engagement. While India has not officially recognized the Afghan Taliban government, the development highlights growing contact between both sides.
The Afghan Taliban named Noor Ahmad Noor, a foreign ministry official, as charge d’affaires at Afghanistan’s embassy in New Delhi. He has already assumed his responsibilities. According to an official statement, Noor Ahmad Noor has also met Indian officials since taking charge. These meetings focused on bilateral relations and future cooperation.
The Afghan Embassy in New Delhi confirmed the appointment through a public statement. It said both sides stressed the importance of improving ties between Afghanistan and India. The embassy also shared images of Noor Ahmad Noor meeting Anand Prakash, a senior official from India’s foreign ministry. Indian authorities have not yet issued a formal response.
India has maintained a careful approach toward Afghanistan since the Afghan Taliban returned to power. New Delhi closed its embassy in Kabul in 2021 but later reopened a technical mission. In October, India announced plans to upgrade that mission into a full embassy. This shows a gradual expansion of diplomatic engagement without formal recognition.
The Afghan Taliban have been seeking wider international legitimacy. Regaining control of overseas diplomatic missions is part of this effort. The appointment in India reflects a broader strategy to rebuild foreign relations. It also shows the group’s interest in engaging regional powers despite political differences.
Relations between India and Afghanistan have a long history. India previously invested heavily in Afghan infrastructure, health, and education projects. Many of these projects stopped after the change in government. However, recent steps suggest both sides may be open to limited cooperation again.
Geopolitical factors also play a role. India and Pakistan remain regional rivals with tense relations. Afghanistan’s ties with Pakistan have faced challenges in recent years. Analysts believe New Delhi may see engagement with Kabul to protect its regional interests and maintain influence.
The Afghan Taliban follow a strict interpretation of Islamic law. This contrasts sharply with India’s political system and policies. Despite these differences, practical diplomacy appears to be guiding current actions on both sides.
At present, Russia remains the only country to officially recognize the Afghan Taliban government. Other nations continue to engage without granting formal recognition. India’s approach fits this pattern, focusing on dialogue and stability rather than political endorsement.
This incident highlights the Afghan Taliban’s strict enforcement of social rules across the country. For more updates on internal developments, read our report on Afghan Taliban Arrest Man for Shaving Beard in Herat.
This diplomatic step may not change official policy immediately. However, it signals a willingness to keep communication channels open. Regional observers will watch closely to see how this engagement develops in the coming months.
