Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is set to visit Deoband in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district on Saturday and Agra on Sunday as part of his six-day official visit to India. This visit holds significance as it marks his first trip to India since the Taliban took control of Kabul four years ago.
During his day-long visit to Deoband, Muttaqi will tour the historic Darul Uloom Deoband, one of South Asia’s most influential Islamic seminaries. He is expected to arrive around noon on Saturday and return to Delhi by evening, confirmed police officials.
Superintendent of Police (Saharanpur Rural) Sagar Jain stated that comprehensive security arrangements have been implemented, with both police and intelligence units positioned throughout the area. The district administration works closely with Darul Uloom authorities to ensure the program runs smoothly.
Darul Uloom’s office in-charge Mufti Rehan Usmani confirmed the visit, noting the seminary’s preparations to welcome the Afghan minister. Usmani mentioned, “We expected him to stay for two days, but due to a packed schedule, the visit has been shortened to one day. He will meet important figures including Rector Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani and Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind President Maulana Arshad Madani.”
During this visit, Muttaqi is also expected to meet Afghan students enrolled at the seminary and tour its historic library. This library holds thousands of rare Islamic manuscripts. His presence has already sparked excitement among students and local residents.
On Sunday, Minister Muttaqi will travel to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal. Officials have planned for him to leave Delhi at around 8 a.m. via the Yamuna Expressway, reaching Shilpgram by 11 a.m..
Once in Agra, he will take an electric golf cart to the Taj Mahal, where he is anticipated to spend about an hour and a half appreciating the site before returning to Delhi in the afternoon.
Agra authorities emphasized that elaborate security arrangements are established for this high-profile visit. A senior official remarked, “No lapses will be tolerated, and security will remain tight throughout his stay.”
This visit carries strategic significance, occurring amid the complicated diplomatic landscape as India and Afghanistan grapple with strained ties with Pakistan. Challenges such as cross-border terrorism and regional security concerns necessitate careful navigation of relationships in the region.
In conclusion, Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visits to Deoband and Agra reflect India’s diplomatic engagements with Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, emphasizing a nuanced approach to regional stability and cooperation between the nations.
