Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor, a key Taliban figure, has landed in New Delhi to spearhead the Afghan Embassy as its new Charge d’Affaires. This appointment underscores a maturing dialogue between India and post-2021 Afghanistan.
With a track record as head of the Foreign Ministry’s First Political Department, Noor is no novice. Ties gained steam after FM Amir Khan Muttaqi’s extended October 2025 India visit, where he and Noor conferred with S. Jaishankar on embassy staffing.
The pact affirmed Taliban envoys, aligning with Muttaqi’s assertion of full control over the premises. Five years on from their ascent, such moves indicate gradual normalization.
Non-recognition persists from India, but support endures: aid shipments, health aid. Taliban now oversees Mumbai and Hyderabad consulates, eclipsing remnants of Ashraf Ghani’s team, including former CDA Ibrahim Khil.
Afghan visitors have flocked to India recently, hashing out trade pacts, energy deals, and Chabahar Port enhancements. India’s investment in the port positions it as a gateway for Afghan goods, spurring economic vitality.
Noor’s recent Bangladesh foray adds to his portfolio. This posting reflects India’s realpolitik—safeguarding interests in aid, security, and connectivity amid flux. Bilateral horizons appear set for expansion.