Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is making a historic visit to India in October 2025 as the Taliban seeks diplomatic engagement, economic ties, and legitimacy.
Who is Amir Khan Muttaqi?
Amir Khan Muttaqi has served as the Acting Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan since September 7, 2021, following the Taliban’s return to power after the U.S. withdrawal. truthfrontier.com
Born in 1971 in Nad Ali, Helmand province, Muttaqi cut his political teeth within the Taliban movement long before their ascension. He held positions in the Taliban’s information, culture, and media departments and has acted as the group’s spokesperson and negotiator in international settings.
Latest Diplomacy: Historic Visit to India
In October 2025, Buttaqi is slated for a landmark visit to New Delhi, the first high-level trip to India by a senior Taliban official since their takeover in 2021. truthfrontier.com
This trip was made possible by a temporary exemption granted by the UN Security Council Committee, lifting the travel ban that had been imposed on him under existing sanctions.
During his visit (from October 9-16, 2025), Muttaqi is expected to meet Indian Prime external affairs minister S. Jaishankar, national security advisors, business leaders, and possibly visit cultural or Islamic heritage sites. Key topics include political recognition, economic cooperation, trade, regional security, and possibly humanitarian assistance.
Significance of the Visit & What’s at Stake
- Diplomatic Breakthrough
This marks a cautious shift in India-Afghanistan relations. India has not formally recognized the Taliban government, but permitting this visit suggests India is open to engagement, even without full recognition. - UN Sanctions Exemption
The travel waiver reflects international pragmatism — despite sanctions, diplomacy is being used for strategic ends. It sets a precedent for how the Taliban might engage globally if afforded conditional mobility. - Regional Stability & Security
With talks likely to cover issues like trade, counterterrorism, refugees, cross-border security, and economic corridors, the visit could reshape India’s policy in the region and impact neighboring countries’ strategies. - Recognition & Legitimacy
While formal recognition is not expected soon, such high-level engagements lend de facto legitimacy to the Taliban regime. They also allow the Taliban to push for relief from sanctions, foreign aid, and investments.
Challenges & Controversies
- Human Rights Concerns: The Taliban’s policies—especially with regards to women’s rights, educational bans, and civil liberties—remain major obstacles for broader acceptance. These issues often surface in international discussions around recognition and aid.
- India’s Delicate Position: India must balance its own strategic interests—security along its borders, impact of refugee flows, and regional stability—without alienating domestic opinion or worsening relations with neighboring states. truthfrontier.com
Background: Path to Power & Influences
- Early Life & Taliban Involvement: Muttaqi rose through the ranks during the Afghan civil war, studied religious sciences in refugee schools, and later took on roles in Taliban media and information operations.
- Acting Roles & Deputies: He works alongside Deputy Foreign Minister Naeem Wardak, and previously Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai held deputy roles.
- Spokesperson: The Foreign Ministry’s voice is Abdul Qahar Balkhi, serving as spokesperson since September 2021.
