Taliban Welcomes India’s Increased Budget Assistance to Afghanistan

Kabul: The Taliban administration has welcomed India’s decision to increase development assistance for Afghanistan in the Union Budget 2026–27, describing it as a sign of improving ties between the two countries.

In the latest budget, India raised its allocation for Afghanistan from ₹100 crore to ₹150 crore — an increase of ₹50 crore over the previous year. The funding will be routed through India’s Ministry of External Affairs as part of its overseas development assistance. Analysts say the move is expected to provide much-needed support to the landlocked country, which continues to face economic and humanitarian challenges.

According to reports, Suhail Shaheen, Afghanistan’s ambassador in Qatar and a senior Taliban leader, praised the decision in remarks to WION. He said the increased allocation indicates a mutual willingness to expand cooperation and strengthen existing relations.

“I believe the increase in India’s budget allocation for Afghanistan signals that both countries want to enhance their current relationship and expand cooperation,” Shaheen said. He also highlighted the long-standing historical and people-to-people ties between the two nations.

Shaheen further invited greater Indian investment in Afghanistan, pointing to opportunities emerging from reconstruction efforts. “As we are rebuilding Afghanistan almost from scratch, there are significant opportunities for Indian investment and trade that should be explored and utilized,” he added.

India and the Taliban authorities have gradually moved toward pragmatic engagement in recent years. The Taliban has appointed a diplomatic representative to India, reflecting a cautious normalization of contacts despite the complex geopolitical backdrop.