NEW DELHI, 03 June 2022, (TON): An Indian delegation and the Taliban met in Kabul for the first time since August last year, when the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, which is struggling for basic needs after a 20-year war in the largely mountainous region.

All Indian mission staff had returned from Afghanistan in August last year when the Taliban took control of the country, following the exit of US forces.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi told "post August 15 last year, in the light of deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, it was decided to bring back all India-based officials. However, the local staff continued to function and ensure proper maintenance and upkeep of our premises there.”

Mr Bagchi said "India has historical and civilisational ties with Afghan people and those long-standing ties will continue to guide our approach to Afghanistan.”

He said "in this connection, the Indian team will meet the senior members of the Taliban, and hold discussions on India's humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan.”