What happened?
India and the Taliban held their first high-level meeting on January 08, 2025, in Dubai, during which the Taliban representatives urged India to start issuing visas to Afghan businessmen, students, and patients. The Taliban assured India of vetting visa seekers to address security concerns.
Why it mattered to India
This issuing of visas for Afghan nationals is significant for India primarily due to its security concerns and for the political implications, especially since India does not officially recognise the Taliban government. The matter also involves diplomatic, security, and logistical challenges, particularly given the previous restrictions on Afghan nationals entering India after the Taliban takeover.