In a significant diplomatic engagement, Maulvi Fazl Mohammad Haqqani, the acting head of Afghanistan’s embassy in Tehran, met with India’s Ambassador to Tehran, Rudra Gaurav Shresth, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade through Iran’s Chabahar Port. The meeting, confirmed by the Afghan embassy, reflects ongoing efforts to expand economic ties between the two nations.
According to the statement issued by the Afghan embassy, both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral trade and diplomatic relations. A key point of discussion was the expansion of exports and imports via Chabahar Port, which serves as a crucial trade corridor for India and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan’s trade routes. India has been investing in the development of Chabahar Port to enhance connectivity with Afghanistan and minimize its dependence on Pakistan.
Also See: Islamic Emirate Submits Diplomats List to India
The meeting comes at a time when Afghanistan and India have been gradually increasing diplomatic and economic interactions. The IEA administration, since its return to power in 2021, has sought to bolster relations with regional players, including India. Despite the absence of official recognition from New Delhi, India has maintained an informal presence in Afghanistan, primarily focusing on humanitarian aid and trade relations.
India’s engagement with Afghanistan is notable given the broader geopolitical context. Indian officials, including representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs, have previously met with IEA leadership in neutral locations, such as the UAE, to discuss potential cooperation. While India has not officially recognized the IEA-led government, reports suggest that New Delhi may allow the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) to appoint a head for its embassy in India without granting formal diplomatic status.
Afghan officials have highlighted the historical ties between the two countries and expressed optimism about future collaboration. Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the IEA, stated that Afghanistan and India share mutual interests that necessitate stronger relations, emphasizing ongoing communication between the two nations.
The growing trade between Afghanistan and India, facilitated through Chabahar Port, signals a strategic shift in regional dynamics. As the IEA seeks international legitimacy and economic stability, deeper engagement with India could pave the way for expanded cooperation in multiple sectors, including trade, transit, and regional connectivity.
This news is sourced from [Afghan Voice Agency] and is for informational purposes only.
