Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi emphasized the strategic importance of the India-backed Chabahar port during recent discussions in New Delhi, aiming to establish a vital trade route that circumvents Pakistan amid deteriorating bilateral relations. He urged India to collaborate on overcoming challenges posed by renewed U.S. sanctions affecting trade dynamics. Highlighting historical and cultural ties, he referenced Rabindranath Tagore’s “Kabuliwala” to underscore the deep connections between Afghanistan and India. While Afghanistan has seen a rise in dried fruit exports, issues like border closures and high air freight costs threaten access to key markets, including India. This initiative not only reflects Afghanistan’s economic aspirations but also reinforces India’s role as a critical partner in regional connectivity amid geopolitical tensions.