Taliban’s Deputy Minister of Trade Visits India to Boost Economic Ties

Mawlawi Ahmadullah Zahid, deputy minister of industry and trade under the Taliban government, has traveled to New Delhi at the invitation of the Indian government to participate in an international exhibition and to discuss expanding economic relations with Indian officials.

Deputy Minister’s Visit to India

Mawlawi Ahmadullah Zahid, who serves as the deputy minister of industry and trade in the Taliban’s interim government, has embarked on a trip to New Delhi, invited by Indian officials. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to enhance economic and commercial interactions between the two nations, despite India not yet formally recognizing the Taliban administration.

According to a statement released on Thursday, November 21, Zahid is attending a significant international exhibition and is set to engage in economic discussions during his time in India. He plans to meet with several senior Indian government officials, business leaders, and major investors to foster collaboration.

Discussion Topics

The primary focus of the meetings will revolve around expanding trade, increasing the volume of bilateral commerce, promoting new marketing strategies for Afghan exports—particularly dried and fresh fruits—and attracting joint investments. The Ministry of Industry and Trade has emphasized that showcasing Afghanistan’s production capabilities and opening new pathways for economic vitality are key objectives of this mission.

Economic analysts believe that this visit occurs at a time when India has been taking more proactive steps in recent months to revive trade and transit relations with Kabul. These efforts are aimed at strengthening India’s economic position in the Afghan market through increased commercial engagements and utilizing transit routes, such as the Chabahar Port.