India Confirms Appointment of Taliban-Nominated Chargé d’Affaires in New Delhi

India announced on Friday that the Taliban administration has appointed Noor Ahmad Noor to oversee the operations of the Afghanistan embassy in New Delhi. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Noor formally assumed his duties on January 9.

Diplomatic Reciprocity and Engagement

Spokesperson Jaiswal explained that this move followed India’s earlier decision to upgrade the head of its technical mission in Kabul to the level of chargé d’affaires. This reciprocal adjustment occurred after a visit by the Taliban’s foreign minister to India. While India does not formally recognize the current rulers of Afghanistan, it has steadily expanded engagement since reopening its mission in Kabul in 2022.1 This strategy aims to protect regional interests, ensure access for humanitarian aid, and manage security and economic ties without extending full diplomatic recognition.

Trade and Logistics Focus

The Ministry also highlighted that discussions between India and Afghanistan are ongoing regarding trade and logistics. Recent visits by senior Afghan officials, including the commerce minister, have focused on proposals to establish a transport corridor to boost the trade of essential goods.2 Both sides are exploring ways to expand commercial links, particularly for pharmaceuticals and Afghan fruits.

Indian media noted that Noor Ahmad Noor’s arrival marks the first time a diplomat directly appointed by the Taliban authorities has taken charge of the embassy in New Delhi, following extensive consultations between officials from both sides.