Did Afghan Hindus and Sikhs Honor Muttaqi in Traditional Style in Delhi?
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Synopsis
In a significant cultural exchange, Afghan Hindus and Sikhs honored Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi. This meeting, backed by key organizations, highlighted pressing business issues and the historical ties between Afghanistan and India.
Key Takeaways
- Meeting highlights ties: The gathering emphasized the deep connections between Afghanistan and India.
- Focus on business: Afghan businessmen addressed challenges they face in their operations.
- Traditional honors: The delegation honored Muttaqi with culturally significant gifts.
- Significant diplomatic visit: This visit marks a crucial step in enhancing bilateral relations.
- Education ties: The visit to Darul Uloom Deoband showcases historical and ideological links.
New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) A group of Afghan Hindus and Sikhs had a significant meeting with Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi at the embassy in New Delhi on Monday.
This delegation, backed by the Afghan Minority Council and the Indian World Forum, took the opportunity to honor the Afghan Foreign Minister by presenting him with a traditional turban and shawl.
Among the attendees was Afghan businessman Noorula, who expressed that their main purpose was to discuss business challenges and the obstacles faced by entrepreneurs.
In an interview with IANS, Noorula stated, "We are here to address our business concerns, including issues related to road access, visas, and others. We also aim to discuss the situation at the Wagah Border and Attari Border, which are currently closed."
He pointed out that the community has been experiencing numerous challenges due to Pakistan and expressed optimism for a resolution.
"Individuals involved in the fruit and dry fruit industries came to engage with him. Business owners are struggling with visa complications. The Afghan populace has been facing issues stemming from Pakistan for the last 45-50 years. We hope for a solution," he added.
The Afghan Foreign Minister is currently in India for a week-long visit aimed at strengthening the historic bilateral relations.
On Sunday, Muttaqi engaged with Indian analysts and experts during an event organized by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in New Delhi. The event was well-attended, featuring many distinguished female scholars who were captivated by Muttaqi's insights on Afghanistan's profound ties with India.
"The dialogue highlighted the strong economic, historical, cultural, and civilizational connections between both nations. His reference to Rabindranath Tagore's Kabuliwala resonated deeply with the audience," VIF, a think tank based in New Delhi specializing in foreign affairs, national security, and public policy, shared on X with several images from the event.
On Saturday, Muttaqi visited the esteemed Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh, engaging in discussions with religious scholars at this notable Islamic seminary. This marked the first visit by a senior Taliban official to Darul Uloom Deoband since the change in regime in Afghanistan.
Darul Uloom Deoband holds substantial symbolic and ideological importance for the Taliban, with many senior members having studied at Darul Uloom Haqqania in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, an institution modeled after Deoband.
On Friday, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met with his Afghan counterpart in New Delhi, where they discussed India's support for Afghanistan's development, bilateral trade, territorial integrity, and other significant matters.
EAM Jaishankar highlighted that Muttaqi's visit to India represents a crucial step in advancing bilateral relations and announced the delivery of five ambulances to Afghanistan.
Point of View
The meeting between Afghan Hindus and Sikhs with Foreign Minister Muttaqi illustrates the ongoing quest for unity and support among Afghan minorities. It highlights the crucial role of diplomatic relations in addressing the challenges faced by these communities. As the nation continues to foster its relationship with Afghanistan, it is imperative that the voices of all communities are heard.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the meeting with Foreign Minister Muttaqi?
The meeting aimed to discuss business challenges faced by Afghan Hindus and Sikhs, including issues related to visas and border access.
Who organized the event?
The event was supported by the Afghan Minority Council and the Indian World Forum.
What traditional gifts were presented to Muttaqi?
The Afghan Hindus and Sikhs honored Muttaqi with a turban and shawl, reflecting traditional Afghan customs.
What significant discussions took place during the visit?
Discussions included economic, historical, cultural ties between India and Afghanistan, and the challenges faced by Afghan businesspeople.
Where did Foreign Minister Muttaqi visit before meeting in Delhi?
Before his meeting in Delhi, Muttaqi visited the Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh.
