New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday that India has transitioned its technical mission in Afghanistan to an official embassy. New Delhi is actively exploring ways to enhance its operational capabilities, responsibilities, and overall strength.

During a weekly press briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the recent visit of Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi to India in October, along with subsequent discussions between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Afghan counterpart.

In response to inquiries regarding reports suggesting that the Taliban may send a diplomat to India, Jaiswal stated, "We recently hosted the Afghan Foreign Minister in India. Since then, we have engaged in multiple discussions about development cooperation, as well as a phone call between our External Affairs Minister and Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister. We will keep you informed of further developments as they arise."

"Regarding our embassy, we previously informed you that our technical mission in Kabul has been elevated to an embassy. We are now assessing its functions, responsibilities, and how we plan to bolster its strength. These considerations are currently in progress and will unfold in due course," he added.

On Monday, India provided food aid to families affected by the earthquake that struck the Balkh, Samangan, and Baghlan provinces in Afghanistan. This assistance came after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake resulted in over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries.

"Reaffirming its commitment to the Afghan people, India has delivered food supplies for families impacted by the earthquake," Jaiswal shared on X.

Minister Jaishankar also communicated with his Afghan counterpart Muttaqi to express condolences for the earthquake-related casualties. He assured that Indian relief supplies would reach the affected communities promptly.

In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar wrote, "I spoke with FM Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi this afternoon to express my condolences regarding the loss of lives in the recent earthquake that impacted Balkh, Samangan, and Baghlan provinces. Indian relief materials for the affected communities are being distributed today, with more medical supplies on the way."

"We discussed the progress in our bilateral relationship since his visit. I welcomed the strengthening of people-to-people contacts between India and Afghanistan and appreciated the exchange of views on the regional situation," he added.

Earlier in October, India confirmed the restoration of its Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of the Embassy of India in Afghanistan effective immediately. The MEA stated that this decision highlights India’s commitment to enhancing its bilateral cooperation with Afghanistan across all areas of mutual interest.

"Following the recent visit of the Afghan Foreign Minister to India, the Government has restored the status of the Indian Technical Mission in Kabul to that of the Embassy of India, effective immediately," stated the MEA.

"This decision underscores India’s determination to deepen its bilateral engagement with Afghanistan in all areas of shared interest. The Embassy of India in Kabul will further bolster India's contributions to Afghanistan’s comprehensive development, humanitarian assistance, and capacity-building initiatives, aligned with the priorities and aspirations of Afghan society," it concluded.