NEW DELHI: Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Saturday expressed optimism about the future of India–Afghanistan relations during his visit to Darul Uloom Deoband in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, calling the bilateral partnership “very bright” and filled with potential for growth across multiple sectors.
Muttaqi, who received a warm reception from the Ulema and locals in Deoband, said he was touched by the hospitality extended to him. “The journey has been very good so far. Not just the people of Darul Uloom, but all the people of the area have come here. I am grateful to them for the warm welcome they extended to me… The future of India-Afghanistan relations seems very bright,” he told ANI.
His visit comes amid renewed diplomatic and development engagement between New Delhi and Kabul. India has remained a key partner in Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts, supporting infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects. Muttaqi’s trip is seen as part of ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation in economic, cultural, and security domains.
According to officials at Darul Uloom Deoband, the Afghan foreign minister is scheduled to address students and the public later in the day before proceeding to Agra on Sunday to visit the Taj Mahal.
Darul Uloom Deoband, one of South Asia’s oldest Islamic seminaries, has historically played a role in shaping Islamic scholarship across the region since its founding in the late 19th century.
Earlier, on October 10, Muttaqi held detailed discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi. Both sides reaffirmed their long-standing friendship and discussed key regional developments. “External Affairs Minister reiterated India’s long-standing friendship with the Afghan people and highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties binding the two nations. He conveyed India’s continued commitment to support the aspirations and developmental needs of the Afghan people,” a joint statement said.
