Taliban Foreign Minister Muttaqi’s Warning To Pakistan, Bilateral Talks With India

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, speaking during his first official visit to India, delivered a stern warning to Pakistan to "stop playing games" with Afghanistan, cautioning Islamabad against provocative actions amid rising border tensions. Addressing the issue in New Delhi, Muttaqi referenced both the United Kingdom and the United States, nations that have fought prolonged wars in Afghanistan, to underscore the gravity of his message. He stated, "Pakistan should stop playing games with Afghanistan. Don't provoke Afghanistan too much-if you do, ask the British once; if you ask the Americans, they'll probably explain to you that playing such games with Afghanistan is not good. We want a diplomatic path."

The remarks come amid escalating incidents along the Durand Line, including cross-border airstrikes and exchanges of fire, with both Afghanistan and Pakistan accusing each other of harboring militants and violating territorial sovereignty. Despite the combative tone toward Pakistan, Muttaqi's visit to India carried a cooperative and diplomatic focus.

During meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, both sides agreed on measures to strengthen bilateral relations and development cooperation. Jaishankar announced that India would upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged Embassy, reaffirming New Delhi's engagement with Afghanistan despite the absence of formal recognition of the Taliban government. "India is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan. To enhance that, I am pleased to announce the upgrading of India's technical mission in Kabul to the status of Embassy of India," he said.

The two ministers unveiled a broad development and humanitarian package, including six new projects, the gift of 20 ambulances, and the provision of MRI and CT scan machines, vaccines, and cancer medicines for Afghan hospitals. Both leaders emphasized economic, educational, and cultural cooperation, highlighting new flights between Kabul and New Delhi and expanded scholarship opportunities for Afghan students. Jaishankar also praised the growing visibility of Afghan athletes, particularly in cricket.

Additionally, India and Afghanistan pledged continued coordination on counterterrorism, recognizing the shared threat of cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar commended Kabul's sensitivity toward India's security concerns and expressed gratitude for Afghanistan's support following the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack. The nations also agreed to maintain humanitarian collaboration, including reconstruction aid for earthquake-affected regions and ongoing food assistance.

This visit marks a significant step in deepening India-Afghanistan ties while sending a clear message to Pakistan regarding Afghanistan's sovereignty and regional stability.