Taliban wants to continue trade with India via Pakistan

New Delhi : Calling India an important nation, Taliban wishes to continue Afghanistan's relationship with India like before in terms of trade and economic ties.

In a televised speech, Taliban leader Sher Muhammad Stanikzai batted for trade with India via Pakistan while calling for air trade route to remain open.

This is the latest in a series of remarks by Taliban leaders purporting to show an outreach to India after the government recalled all diplomatic personnel from Kabul fearing instability in the country following the Taliban takeover. The messaging indicates a desire to gain acceptance at a time most countries, including India, have highlighted concerns relating to terrorism.

While India is unlikely to, as it has said, jump the gun on officially recognising the Taliban, sources said engagement with Taliban is not ruled out. Like the US and others, the government believes engagement is important for ensuring a government in Kabul that is inclusive and representative.