By reopening its embassy in Kabul on Oct. 21, India has chosen engagement over isolation ¡ª a move that could prompt other major democracies, from Japan to the United States, to follow suit.
The decision restores direct communication with the Taliban rulers at a time when Pakistan¡¯s airstrikes last month triggered several days of border conflict with Afghanistan, sharply worsening bilateral relations. India¡¯s move also signals a readiness to deal with those in power ¡ª however unpalatable ¡ª to safeguard its long-term interests in Afghanistan and beyond.
The reopening followed Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi¡¯s recent visit to India, enabled by a special United Nations sanctions exemption. While marking a cautious reset in India-Taliban relations, the visit indicated a shift in Afghanistan¡¯s regional power dynamics as New Delhi and Kabul seek to counterbalance the influence of China and Pakistan.
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