Afghanistan and India: A Geopolitical Necessity
Resetting ties with Afghanistan is a geopolitical need for India, especially with two hostile neighbors in the vicinity.
The Taliban-led government, which came to power after the US withdrawal from Kabul in 2021, is yet to receive recognition from world powers. Despite this, Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is on his maiden visit to India, marking a potential thaw in relations.
Historically, India enjoyed good relations with Afghanistan, but was forced to close its High Commission in Kabul in 2021. A small mission was reopened a year later to facilitate medical support, trade, and humanitarian aid.
India had to close its High Commission in Kabul in 2021, but reopened a small mission a year later.
However, there is still a dilemma over which flag to use during official talks, as India only recognizes the old flag of Afghanistan, not the current Taliban flag.
After four years of diplomatic tensions, the relationship between Afghanistan and India may be approaching a much-needed thaw.
Author's summary: India resets Afghanistan ties amid geopolitical needs.