Pakistan

Cultural, diplomatic, and economic exchange has proliferated between India and the Middle East since ancient times. This engagement has continued into the modern era. India has maintained a strong relationship with Egypt, particularly since both countries became the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement during the Cold War. India also maintains bilateral relations with Iraq, Iran, Syria, and the Gulf states, dating back to when the area was known as the Fertile Crescent and when the Arab spice trade dominated the region.

Ideological and religious differences will continue to limit ISIL's ability to recruit from Afghan Taliban.

Inside Afghanistan the main income seems to come from protection rackets and tolls, bribes or taxes. Members of the Taliban also own businesses in the United Arab Emirates, in Qatar and Saudi Arabia that produce funds. Of course everyone in Afghanistan who controls land that grows poppy, or roads over which opiates are transported makes money from protection and extortion of the drug industry, including the Taliban, but that is only part of their portfolio.

Barnett Rubin speaks with Amanpour, CNN’s International's flagship program for global affairs hosted by Chief International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour.

CNN TRANSCRIPT Aired July 29, 2015 - 14:00:00   ET

AMANPOUR: And just ahead, for years we've wondered whether Mullah Omar was dead or alive. He hasn't been seen since around 9/11. I asked 
world renowned expert Barnett Rubin what difference his death would make now. That's next.