India and Afghanistan's relationship has taken a new turn with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's first public interaction with the Taliban's acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, on May 15, 2025.
India-Taliban Relations: On Thursday, May 15, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi over the phone. During the conversation, India welcomed Afghanistan's firm rejection of attempts to sow mistrust between the two nations. This marked the first publicly acknowledged dialogue between the two ministers.
Jaishankar specifically appreciated Muttaqi's b condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pulwama. This interaction is considered a step towards fostering trust and communication between the two countries.
Taliban's Condemnation of the Pulwama Attack
During the conversation, Jaishankar expressed gratitude for Muttaqi's b condemnation of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, carried out by Pakistan-backed terrorists, resulted in the loss of 26 lives. The Taliban's condemnation has been viewed by India as a positive sign.
Jaishankar welcomed Muttaqi's dismissal of false and baseless reports alleging that India had "hired" the Taliban for a "false flag" operation in Pulwama. These reports, spread by certain sections of the Pakistani media, were explicitly rejected by the Taliban.
Discussion on Inclusive Government and Development Cooperation
During the conversation, Jaishankar reiterated India's traditional friendship with the Afghan people and its continued support for their developmental needs. Both leaders discussed ways and means to further cooperation. This interaction represents the first public political engagement between India and the Taliban since the latter's rise to power in 2021.
Prior to this, in January 2025, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Muttaqi in Dubai. This high-level contact signals the beginning of a new chapter in relations between the two countries.
Pakistan's Disquiet
The growing proximity between India and the Taliban has caused concern in Pakistan. Pakistan has long supported the Taliban, but the Taliban's engagement with India has become a matter of worry for Pakistan. Experts believe that this positive stance by the Taliban towards India represents a setback for Pakistan.
