Afghan FM asserts control over embassy amid India talks and flag controversy

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi boldly asserted control over the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi on Sunday, making it clear that the Islamic Emirate’s flag was flying proudly inside, despite the embassy still officially hoisting the former flag of Ashraf Ghani’s regime. “This is our flag. We fought jihad under this. This is 100% our embassy,” he said, reinforcing the Taliban’s claim over the mission.

While India has yet to formally recognize the Taliban, Muttaqi’s visit saw a packed press conference, a shift from the previous controversial one where female journalists were barred. The event featured multiple women reporters and foreign correspondents, marking a move toward inclusivity.

During his week-long visit, Muttaqi held “constructive talks” with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, covering trade, economy, healthcare, and infrastructure. New air routes between India and Afghanistan were announced, and plans for enhanced trade cooperation, including requests for Afghan goods to pass through the Attari-Wagah border, were discussed.

Addressing concerns over women’s rights, Muttaqi stated that education is not prohibited in Afghanistan, claiming over 10 million students, including girls, are attending school. On relations with Pakistan, he called for peace but warned that Afghanistan could defend itself if necessary. He also reiterated Afghanistan’s pursuit of independent, respectful ties with India.