Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – India is on the verge of accepting its first Taliban representative at the Afghan consulate in Mumbai, a move signaling New Delhi’s intent to engage with the current regime in Kabul. Reports indicate that Ikramuddin Kamil has been selected by the Taliban as the second secretary for the Afghan consulate in Mumbai and has already arrived in India.
The Sunday Guardian reports that Mr. Kamil entered on a standard passport, with a diplomatic passport issuance likely forthcoming. While Kamil is currently in New Delhi, sources confirmed to The Independent that he has yet to formally assume his duties in Mumbai.
This unprecedented step by India would establish Mr. Kamil as the first Taliban official to operate in an official capacity within the country. The move follows broader Taliban efforts to gain international legitimacy and increase cooperation with key Asian partners, including China and Pakistan.
India’s acceptance of a Taliban diplomat reflects a strategic shift, aiming to bolster communication with Afghanistan amid growing security concerns across South Asia. As reported by Afghanistan International, the consulate in New Delhi is expected to host additional Taliban appointees, including Najeeb Shaheen, son of Taliban political leader Sohail Shaheen, who is reportedly set to serve as chargé d’affaires.
This week’s developments align with a high-level meeting between India’s senior foreign ministry official, JP Singh, and Taliban acting defense minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob in Kabul, marking a significant diplomatic engagement. Mr. Singh also held talks with acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and former Afghan President Hamid Karzai. The Ministry of External Affairs has not yet commented on these meetings, which observers regard as a significant evolution in India-Afghan relations.
