S Jaishankar: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made a big political move when he said that India is going to improve its relationship with Afghanistan and reopen its embassy in Kabul after being closed for four years. This move shows that the United States is once again committed to working together with Afghanistan on political, economic, and social issues, even though the Taliban are still in power.
Analysts say that India’s move could change the political situation in the region, especially with Pakistan, which has always wanted to have a say in Afghanistan.
Reopening the embassy is a strategic and symbolic move
India’s embassy in Kabul has reopened, but it’s not just a political move. It shows that India is fully committed to helping Afghanistan rebuild and grow through projects that improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
What this means for Pakistan
Pakistan has always seen Afghanistan as a place where it can have an effect, and they have often taken advantage of its closeness to make strategic gains. If India gets involved again, Pakistan might not be able to have as much of an impact in Kabul. According to experts in the area, India’s rising presence could make Pakistan’s long-term plans for security and politics less stable. This could help keep Afghanistan’s politics in check as they change.
Cooperation in economics and development
India has a history of making important contributions to Afghanistan’s growth. Some of the things they’ve built in the past are roads, power plants, hospitals, and schools. India is likely to restart direct aid, trade facilitation, and collaborative projects now that the embassy is open again. This will help keep the economy stable and promote long-term growth between the two countries.
This could also improve trade between India and Afghanistan, especially in the energy, mining, and farming sectors. This would be good for both countries and give the region more trade options.
Thoughts on regional geopolitics and strategic issues
India’s action aligns with broader efforts to develop partnerships in the region as geopolitical dynamics shift. By strengthening its foothold in Afghanistan, India can enhance regional security, combat extremism, and engage in strategic positioning.
India’s increased engagement could hinder Islamabad’s influence in Kabul, to the detriment of Pakistan’s diplomatic objectives. This will further complicate the politics of South Asia.
