In a significant diplomatic move, India is preparing to re-establish a full embassy in Kabul, signaling a potential shift in its approach toward Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government. This decision follows a series of behind-the-scenes diplomatic exchanges and growing recognition of the need for a more consistent presence in the region.

Background

India had shut down its embassy in Kabul in August 2021, following the Taliban’s rapid takeover after the U.S. troop withdrawal. Since then, India has operated a “technical mission” in the Afghan capital, primarily focused on humanitarian and developmental assistance.

Now, sources in the Ministry of External Affairs indicate that the Indian government is exploring options to upgrade this mission into a full diplomatic outpost, possibly within the next few months.

Why This Matters

Strategic Interests: Afghanistan remains geopolitically important for India, especially in terms of regional stability, counterterrorism cooperation, and connectivity projects like the Chabahar Port in Iran.
Security Concerns: India has long been wary of terror networks operating out of Afghan soil, and a stronger presence on the ground would allow better coordination with local authorities.
Humanitarian and Development Goals: India has been a major contributor to Afghanistan’s infrastructure — from roads and hospitals to scholarships for Afghan students. A full embassy would help facilitate these efforts more efficiently.

India’s Engagement with Taliban Officials

Recently, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar reportedly met with Afghanistan’s Taliban-appointed foreign minister during a multilateral gathering. While India still does not formally recognize the Taliban government, such meetings suggest an evolving pragmatic engagement.

India has also been cautious, seeking assurances that Afghan soil won’t be used for anti-India activities, particularly by groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba or Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Cautious Optimism

Analysts see this move as a calculated diplomatic step, rather than full recognition. It reflects India’s interest in staying relevant in Afghan affairs while safeguarding its security and developmental investments.

If the embassy is restored, it will be India’s first full diplomatic mission under Taliban rule, signaling an acknowledgment — at least in practice — of the reality on the ground.