UNSC Travel Ban: India Seeks Exemption for Afghanistan FM’s Visit This Week

India Seeks UNSC Waiver to Host Afghan Foreign Minister in Potential Diplomatic Breakthrough

In a development that could reshape India’s engagement with Afghanistan under the Taliban, New Delhi has invited Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi for an official visit later this week.

The trip, however, depends on approval from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions committee, as Muttaqi remains under a travel ban imposed by Resolution 1988 targeting senior Taliban leaders. India has formally requested a waiver to enable the visit.

“Preparations have been completed on India’s side. Dates will be finalised once the UNSC committee clears the waiver,” a top diplomatic source told CNN-News18.

If approved, this would mark the first high-level Taliban visit to India since the group regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021 following the US and NATO withdrawal. Kabul’s foreign ministry has also confirmed receiving the invitation.

A Diplomatic Win Over Pakistan?

The move comes weeks after Pakistan failed to secure a similar waiver for Muttaqi, reportedly due to US objections. Washington could again oppose the waiver for India, but approval would be a symbolic diplomatic victory for New Delhi and a setback for Islamabad.

“Approval would send a clear signal that India is cautiously opening a new chapter with Kabul, in contrast to Pakistan’s unsuccessful attempt,” a UN source said.

Strategic Stakes for India

While India has not formally recognised the Taliban government, it has kept functional ties through humanitarian aid and by reopening its Kabul mission in 2022. Hosting Muttaqi could allow discussions on regional security, counter-terrorism, connectivity, and trade — all key to India’s interests in Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Taliban leaders remain under sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes, but India’s request reflects a growing readiness to engage directly with Kabul despite international reservations.

If cleared, Muttaqi’s visit could be seen as a sign of shifting power dynamics in South Asia, where India and Pakistan remain locked in competition for influence in Afghanistan.