India's foreign secretary met with Afghanistan's acting foreign minister in Dubai, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations. This meeting represents the highest-level talks between India and the Taliban since the group's takeover of Afghanistan. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, addressing security concerns, engaging in development projects, and enhancing humanitarian assistance. India's outreach to the Taliban is driven by its security and strategic interests in Afghanistan, including trade and connectivity links. The meeting between India and the Taliban could unsettle Pakistan, which shares borders with both countries and has seen its relations with the Taliban deteriorate. Several factors, including deteriorating Pakistani relations and concerns about China's increasing influence, may have led India to strengthen its relationship with Afghanistan.