“Our future is bright,” Taliban FM says on Deoband visit sidelines

Afghanistan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi visited Darul Uloom Deoband on October 11, where he met Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind President Maulana Arshad Madani. Muttaqi expressed appreciation for the reception he received, hoping for improved relations between India and the Taliban, reports 24brussels.

During the meeting, Muttaqi noted, “I am thankful to all of you for the warm welcome given to me by everyone in Deoband and the love showered upon me. I will pray to God that India-Afghanistan relations improve further. After the meeting I had in Delhi, I can say that our future is bright. I hope that our visits between Delhi and Kabul increase.”

In response to questions, Madani clarified that the discussions did not focus on political matters. He emphasized Afghanistan’s historical role in India’s independence, stating, “Our ties with you are not just academic. You contributed to the independence of India.” He reassured that the meeting signifies strong ties between Indian Muslims and the Taliban, advocating for global harmony.

Addressing security concerns, Madani remarked, “India has had complaints that Afghanistan sent terrorists to India. Now, after this meeting, it is confirmed that no terrorists will come to India from Afghanistan.” Earlier, in an exclusive conversation with ANI, Muttaqi expressed optimism about the trajectory of India-Afghanistan relations and appreciated the warm reception he received from the local community.

Muttaqi remarked, “The journey has been very good so far. Not just the people of Darul Uloom, but all the people of the area have come here. I am grateful to them for the warm welcome they extended to me… The future of India-Afghanistan relations seems very bright,” he stated.