Afghan FM visits Darul Uloom Deoband, seeks stronger India ties

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Saturday expressed hope for stronger India-Afghanistan relations during his visit to Darul Uloom Deoband in Saharanpur, one of South Asia’s most influential Islamic seminaries.

Speaking to reporters, Muttaqi said, “We will be sending new diplomats, and I hope you people will visit Kabul as well. I have hopes for stronger ties in the future from the way I was received in Delhi. These visits may be frequent in the near future.”

The Afghan minister, who arrived from Delhi by road along with his delegation, was welcomed by Abul Qasim Nomani, Mohtamim (vice-chancellor) of Darul Uloom Deoband, Maulana Arshad Madani, president of Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind, and other officials of the seminary. The arrival was marked by a floral shower, and the event lasted for several hours, including greetings, discussions, and media interactions.

Hundreds of students and local residents gathered at the seminary to greet the visiting dignitary, though security personnel controlled the crowd to maintain order. “I am thankful for such a grand welcome and the affection shown by the people here. I hope that India-Afghanistan ties advance further,” Muttaqi added.

Prior to his visit, Afghan embassy officials from Delhi arrived in Deoband on Friday to coordinate arrangements, while local intelligence and security agencies made extensive preparations to ensure a smooth and secure visit.

Muttaqi landed in New Delhi on Thursday for a six-day trip and is the first senior Taliban minister to visit India since the group came to power four years ago. India has not formally recognised the Taliban administration.

During his stay, Muttaqi indicated that Kabul would soon send its diplomats to India as part of a “step-by-step” approach to strengthen bilateral ties. He also emphasised that the Taliban would not allow Afghan territory to be used against other countries.

The Afghan foreign minister highlighted potential collaboration with India on developing the Chabahar port in Iran, amid challenges posed by US sanctions under the Trump administration.

The visit comes at a time when both India and Afghanistan are facing strained relations with Pakistan over cross-border terrorism and other security concerns, adding strategic significance to the engagement.