India Moves to Secure UNSC Waiver for Taliban Foreign Minister’s Visit.
India has invited Afghanistan’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi this week in what could mark the first official visit by a senior Taliban leader since the group returned to power in 2021. The trip hinges on a travel ban waiver from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), as Muttaqi remains sanctioned under Resolution 1988. New Delhi has formally approached the UNSC sanctions committee for approval.
“India has completed all arrangements for the visit. Final dates will be set once the waiver is cleared,” a senior diplomatic source confirmed.
Pakistan Blocked, India Pushes Ahead
The move comes weeks after Pakistan’s request for a similar waiver was rejected, reportedly due to US opposition. If India succeeds, it would be a notable diplomatic win over Islamabad and signal a cautious shift in New Delhi’s approach to Kabul.
Strategic Significance
India has so far limited its engagement with the Taliban to humanitarian aid and technical missions, without extending recognition. A successful visit could open the door to talks on counter-terrorism, regional security, connectivity, and trade.
Afghanistan’s Taliban-controlled foreign ministry has confirmed receiving the invitation, saying Muttaqi is prepared to travel if the waiver is approved. With the UNSC committee’s decision expected soon, the visit could underline a new phase of competition between India and Pakistan for influence in Afghanistan’s future.
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