India and Afghanistan Establish Trade Committee, Says FM Muttaqi

Afghanistan and India have agreed to establish a trade committee to bolster economic cooperation, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi announced on October 10, 2025, during his visit to New Delhi, reports 24brussels. “Both sides agreed to create a trade committee… Due to opportunities opened in Afghanistan in terms of investment, and activities in minerals and energy, we invited the Indian side to explore work in these areas,” Muttaqi stated, pointing to the potential for increased business and investment ties between the two nations.

Earlier in April, India’s special envoy to Afghanistan, Anand Prakash, visited Kabul to discuss political and trade relations. In January, Muttaqi had met with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Dubai. The Afghan foreign minister elaborated on his recent discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, which encompassed various topics including economic, political, diplomatic, regional, and security matters. “Some of the achievements were the Indian government’s upgradation of technical presence at the embassy… And a diplomatic delegation of the Islamic Emirate will arrive in Delhi,” he added.

Moreover, the two sides agreed to enhance the air corridor to support trade and address health concerns in Afghanistan. “EAM pledged to broaden health activities in Afghanistan, and we appreciate the assistance provided for the victims of the earthquake,” Muttaqi said.

Expressing appreciation for the warm reception in India, Muttaqi remarked, “This is my first time visiting India as the FM of Afghanistan, and I appreciate the warm hospitality shown to us by the Indian Foreign Minister and the Indian government.” During their meeting, Jaishankar informed Muttaqi of India’s plans to upgrade its Kabul mission to an embassy, which was closed after the Taliban took power in 2021.

On the same day, Jaishankar presented five ambulances as a gesture of goodwill to Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, part of a larger promise of 20 ambulances. In a post on X, Jaishankar noted, “Also handed over 5 Ambulances to FM Muttaqi. This is part of the larger gift of 20 ambulances, and other medical equipment reflecting our long-standing support for the Afghan people.”

Jaishankar emphasized India’s deep interest in Afghanistan’s development as a neighboring country and friend. Muttaqi’s week-long visit from October 9-16, 2025, is significant as it marks the first high-level delegation from Kabul to New Delhi since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021.