Delhi, October 12, 2025 – Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, held a significant press conference in Delhi on Sunday, inviting both male and female journalists. Notably, female reporters were seated in the front row, addressing concerns from a previous event where they had not been included. The minister clarified that the previous exclusion was purely due to technical reasons and time constraints, and there was no other intention behind it.
“Last time, due to limited time, we had a short list of journalists. There was no other purpose,” said Amir Khan Muttaqi.
This press conference touched on several critical issues, including women’s education, India-Afghanistan trade relations, and regional security. Here are the key highlights:
Women’s Education in Afghanistan
Amir Khan Muttaqi emphasized that Afghanistan currently has over 10 million students enrolled in schools and other educational institutions, including 2.8 million girls and women.
He highlighted that religious madrasas also provide education up to graduate levels. While there are certain restrictions in some regions, these are not intended to oppose education.
“Women’s education has not been banned on religious grounds, but it is temporarily on hold until proper arrangements are in place,” he added.
India-Afghanistan Diplomatic Engagements
During his visit, Amir Khan Muttaqi met with the Indian Foreign Minister to discuss economic, trade, and diplomatic matters. India announced that it would upgrade its mission in Kabul, and Afghan diplomats would soon visit New Delhi.
This development is seen as a step toward stronger bilateral relations, with both countries exploring ways to enhance cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.
Trade, Flights, and Investment Initiatives
The meeting also addressed boosting trade and air connectivity between Afghanistan and India. The Indian Foreign Minister announced an increase in flights between Kabul and Delhi, facilitating smoother travel and trade operations.
Both countries signed agreements focusing on economic growth, with Afghanistan inviting India to invest in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and sports. The Chabahar port development and utilization were also discussed as part of strengthening regional trade.
Afghanistan requested reopening the Wagah border, which offers the fastest and most convenient trade route between the two nations.
Invitation to Indian Investors
Amir Khan Muttaqi extended a formal invitation to India to invest in key Afghan sectors. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in mining, agriculture, and sports.
“We encourage India to take part in Chabahar port development. Reopening the Wagah border will benefit trade for both nations,” he noted.
Condolences on the Death of Indian Journalist Danish Siddiqui
The Afghan minister expressed grief over the death of Indian journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2021. He confirmed that no journalist has been harmed in the country in the past four years and emphasized that Afghanistan mourns all losses.
“For 40 years, Afghanistan was occupied by the Soviet Union, the U.S., and NATO forces. Now, the country is independent and self-reliant,” he said, reassuring that the situation in Afghanistan is stable.
Also read: Taliban Minister’s Taj Mahal Visit Canceled: Agra Police Confirms Delhi Directive
Remarks on Pakistan and Regional Security
Responding to questions on Pakistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi spoke in Urdu, stating:
“We have no enmity with the people of Pakistan, but some elements are creating difficulties.”
He mentioned that Afghanistan had taken actions against these disturbances, which were later stopped with assistance from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. He urged Pakistan to take responsibility for dismantling terrorist groups, stressing that the Taliban in Afghanistan are not affiliated with TTP operations in Pakistan.
Pointing to the Taliban flag, Amir Khan Muttaqi concluded:
“This is our flag. We fought jihad for it, and we uphold it proudly.”
Also read: Taliban Foreign Minister Muttaqi Visits India: Strengthening Ties Amid Regional Shifts
Conclusion
The press conference by Amir Khan Muttaqi marks a pivotal moment in India-Afghanistan diplomatic relations, highlighting progress in trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation while addressing key concerns about women’s education and regional security. With the planned enhancements in diplomatic missions and trade routes, both countries appear poised for a new chapter in collaboration and mutual growth.
