India's foreign secretary, Vikram Misri, met Taliban's Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.
This meeting is seen as a way for India to increase its influence in Afghanistan, following a period of strained relations since the Taliban's takeover in 2021.
India has invested over $3 billion in Afghanistan for aid and development, with discussions focusing on humanitarian issues and trade.
Analysts believe this move is a continuation of India's strategy to face the reality of Taliban governance rather than a new foreign policy direction.
The meeting aims to pave the way for potential visa issuance for Afghans, which has been restricted since the Taliban's return to power.