*Kabul / New Delhi / Islamabad:*Reliable diplomatic sources have confirmed that India had extended aninvitation to Afghan Taliban’s Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi,to visit New Delhi. For this purpose, India reportedly requested to theUnited Nations Security Council (UNSC) seeking a temporary travelexemption. However, the United States opposed the request, after whichIndia withdrew its application.India’s Strategy
Analysts suggest that India is attempting to re-establish ties with theTaliban government and build direct channels of communication. New Delhi’smove reflects its desire to restore its political and diplomatic presencein Kabul in order to safeguard its strategic interests and expand influencein the region.Pakistan’s Concerns
Pakistan, however, views these developments with suspicion. Islamabadbelieves that India’s activities in Afghanistan are aimed at creating anenvironment unfavorable to Pakistan’s security interests. Pakistaniofficials have repeatedly voiced concerns that India’s presence inAfghanistan could translate into strategic and security challenges forPakistan.The U.S. Position
Washington’s decision to block the travel exemption highlights the U.S.’scautious approach toward the Taliban regime. American officials haveconsistently pressed the Taliban on issues of human rights, women’seducation, and inclusive governance, and are reluctant to grantinternational legitimacy prematurely.Regional Rivalry
Read Top Stories
Experts warn that Afghanistan is once again becoming a “battleground ofinfluence” for regional powers. Pakistan seeks to keep Kabul closelyaligned with its own security and political interests, while India ismaneuvering to establish an independent foothold. This rivalry is expectedto shape not only Afghanistan’s internal dynamics but also the broaderregional security landscape.