The United Nations Security Council has granted temporary travel relief toAfghanistan’s Taliban foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, allowing him totravel to India from October 9 to 16, New Delhi confirmed on Friday.
If the visit takes place, it would be the first by a senior Taliban leaderto India since the group seized power in Kabul in 2021, following thewithdrawal of US-led forces after two decades.
Muttaqi is among several Taliban officials under UN sanctions, whichinclude an international travel ban and asset freeze. However, exemptionsare sometimes granted for diplomatic purposes.
India’s foreign ministry spokesperson confirmed ongoing communication withthe Afghan administration but did not directly verify the visit dates. Henoted that New Delhi had extended humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan,including aid following the August 31 earthquake.
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According to Zia Ahmad Takal, deputy spokesperson for the Taliban’s foreignministry, discussions during the visit would focus on strengtheningbilateral ties, trade exchanges, exports of Afghan dry fruits, healthcarecooperation, consular services, and port facilities. He did not confirm theexact travel schedule.
Reports from Indian and Afghan media suggest that Muttaqi may first visitRussia before traveling to New Delhi.