New Delhi, January 10, 2026: Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor, a senior Taliban official, has arrived in New Delhi to assume the role of Charge d’Affaires (CDA) at Afghanistan’s Embassy, according to Indian officials. This marks the first time a Taliban-appointed diplomat will officially take charge at the Afghan mission in the Indian capital.
Noor Ahmad Noor’s Background
Noor Ahmad Noor previously served as the Director General of the First Political Department at Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He has been a key member of the Taliban’s diplomatic corps and was part of Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s delegation during visits to India. His appointment signifies the Taliban’s ongoing effort to strengthen its diplomatic presence abroad.
India-Afghanistan Relations Amid Taliban Rule
India has not officially recognized the Taliban regime yet continues to maintain diplomatic and humanitarian engagement. Over the past months, bilateral ties have improved, particularly after Amir Khan Muttaqi’s seven-day visit in October 2025, during which he asserted Taliban control over Afghanistan’s Embassy in New Delhi. Muttaqi highlighted the Islamic Emirate flag at the embassy, signaling Taliban authority, despite the official display of the former Afghan flag representing Ashraf Ghani’s government.
Taliban’s Growing Presence in Indian Cities
Apart from the New Delhi embassy, Afghan consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad are also managed by Taliban-appointed diplomats. These moves aim to strengthen bilateral trade, energy projects, and utilisation of the Chabahar Port in Iran, which India has developed to enhance regional connectivity.
Noor Ahmad Noor’s Role Going Forward
As the new Charge d’Affaires, Noor Ahmad Noor is expected to oversee diplomatic operations, coordinate with Indian authorities on trade and aid, and represent the Taliban regime in Afghanistan’s official dealings in India. His arrival highlights the Taliban’s continued push to maintain formal diplomatic relations despite limited international recognition.
