India is considering engaging in development projects in Afghanistan, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, according to a statement from India’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday. This announcement follows a meeting in Dubai between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi.
India has pledged to provide additional material support, initially focusing on Afghanistan’s health sector and refugee rehabilitation, in response to Afghanistan’s request. So far, India has sent several shipments of aid, including wheat, medicines, COVID vaccines, and winter clothing, to assist Afghanistan.
India does not officially recognize the Taliban government, which took control of Afghanistan in 2021, leading India to close its embassy in Kabul. Additionally, Afghanistan’s embassy in New Delhi was shut down in November 2023 after Afghan diplomats, appointed by the previous government, were unable to extend their visas.
