“Deeply appreciate invitation”: Jaishankar on Afghanistan’s offer to Indian companies for mining opportunities
India has expressed its appreciation for Afghanistan’s invitation to explore mining opportunities during a bilateral meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on October 10, 2025, reports 24brussels. The discussion opened avenues for further dialogue on various aspects of Indo-Afghan relations, ranging from development partnerships to cultural exchanges.
In this significant meeting, Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to Afghanistan’s development, stating, “As a contiguous neighbour and a well-wisher of the Afghan people, India has a deep interest in your development and progress.” He reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the two nations, highlighting ongoing Indian projects in Afghanistan and expressing a readiness to discuss maintenance and completion of existing initiatives.
Addressing recent humanitarian crises, Jaishankar announced India’s intention to aid reconstruction efforts in Kunar and Nangahar following the earthquakes that struck the region last month. He also noted India’s ongoing food assistance to Afghanistan, with another shipment scheduled to arrive in Kabul on the same day.
Jaishankar’s remarks included addressing the situation of forcibly repatriated Afghan refugees, reaffirming India’s support for constructing residences and providing material aid. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in sustainable water resource management and highlighted the launch of new direct flights to enhance trade and commerce between Kabul and New Delhi.
The External Affairs Minister detailed educational initiatives, asserting India’s commitment to expand opportunities for Afghan students to study at Indian universities. He referenced a new visa module introduced in April 2025, which facilitates visa issuance in medical, business, and student categories. Additionally, Jaishankar praised Afghanistan’s cricket talent and expressed India’s desire to deepen its support for Afghan cricket.
Muttaqi’s visit, taking place from October 9 to 16, marks the first high-level delegation from Afghanistan to India since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021. Zia Ahmad Takal, head of public relations at the Afghanistan Foreign Ministry, mentioned the aim of this visit is to “expand relations between Kabul and New Delhi.” The United Nations Security Council has granted a temporary exemption from international travel restrictions for Muttaqi, permitting his prolonged stay in India.
