In a significant diplomatic stance, India has aligned with Taliban, Pakistan, China, and Russia to oppose US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s plan to seize control of the Bagram air base in Afghanistan. The move comes ahead of Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi&rsquo;s historic first visit to India.
At the seventh Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan, representatives from Afghanistan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan issued a joint statement: &ldquo;They called unacceptable the attempts by countries to deploy their military infrastructure in Afghanistan and neighboring states, since this does not serve the interests of regional peace and stability.&rdquo;
The Bagram air base, Afghanistan&rsquo;s largest, has two concrete runways and remains a strategic stronghold, historically pivotal in the US-led &ldquo;war on terror&rdquo; post-2001. Trump had publicly demanded its return, claiming: &ldquo;We gave it to the Taliban for nothing. We want that base back.&rdquo; The Taliban firmly rejected the bid, with spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stating: &ldquo;Afghans will never allow their land to be handed over to anyone under any circumstances.&rdquo;
The Moscow Format statement also reinforced support for an independent, united, and peaceful Afghanistan, while urging strengthened counter-terrorism cooperation and regional economic integration. Specific emphasis was placed on Afghanistan&rsquo;s sustainable development, humanitarian aid, and connectivity projects, aligning with India&rsquo;s strategic interests in the region.
Muttaqi&rsquo;s visit, approved by the UN Security Council, will mark a historic engagement, reflecting India&rsquo;s nuanced approach of regional diplomacy, security concerns, and economic collaboration with Afghanistan.

India Joins Allies Against Trump’s Bagram Bid

India, Taliban, Pakistan, China, Russia oppose US plan to take over Bagram air base

India Joins Allies Against Trump’s Bagram Bid

India, Taliban, Pakistan, China, Russia oppose US plan to take over Bagram air base

October 9, 2025 | 01:08 IST