CNN-News18, citing a senior Taliban official, reported that India has extended an invitation to Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban’s acting foreign minister, to visit the country. The trip, according to the source, will take place “later this week” if the UN Security Council grants Muttaqi a travel exemption.
Another source confirmed that New Delhi has completed all logistical and diplomatic preparations and is now awaiting the Security Council’s decision. The exact date of the visit will be finalized following official UN clearance.
India’s Diplomatic Gain
The invitation comes after a planned visit by Muttaqi to Pakistan earlier in August was canceled due to U.S. objections. Islamabad had also sought a travel ban exemption for him but was unsuccessful.
A UN source told CNN-News18 that the Security Council’s travel committee is reviewing India’s request, with a decision expected soon. However, the U.S. may once again object to Muttaqi’s foreign travel.
“If approved,” the source noted, “this would be a significant diplomatic win for New Delhi, particularly when contrasted with Islamabad’s failure to secure the same. It could mark the beginning of a cautious engagement with Kabul.”
Muttaqi is subject to UN Security Council Resolution 1988, which restricts international travel for Taliban officials unless specifically authorized by the Council.
If approved, this will be the first official visit by a senior Taliban leader to India since the group regained power in Afghanistan.
Until now, India’s engagement with the Taliban has been limited to humanitarian and technical aid. In May this year, Indian and Taliban foreign ministers held a phone conversation, during which India reaffirmed its traditional friendship with the people of Afghanistan and its commitment to supporting the country’s development needs.
India reopened its embassy in Kabul in 2022 with a limited technical team.
