Top Iranian diplomat meets Afghan interim govt. FM in Kabul
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi who at the head of political-economic delegation is visiting Kabul met on Sunday morning with Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi the acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistans interim government.
Iranian Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who at the head of political-economic delegation is visiting Kabul, met on Sunday morning with Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan's interim government.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed issues related to economic cooperation, the status of Afghan nationals in Iran, water issues, security and shared borders, as well as regional developments.
Pointing to the the extensive commonalities between Iran and Afghanistan, the foreign minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran underlined the need for both sides to leverage the bonds between the peoples of Iran and Afghanistan to advance mutual interests based on the principle of good neighborliness.
Araghchi reiterated the Islamic Republic of Iran's readiness to expand bilateral cooperation.
Araghchi highlighted the importance of Afghanistan's cooperation in securing the interests of both nations, including in issues pertaining to water resources, Afghan migrants, and the security of shared borders.
He reaffirmed the Islamic Republic of Iran's willingness to strengthen bilateral relations in various economic, trade, and cultural fields.
Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, in turn, welcomed the Iranian Foreign Minister and described the numerous bonds and commonalities between the peoples of Afghanistan and Iran as a solid foundation for continuing and strengthening bilateral cooperation. He called for the expansion of relations in all areas.
Muttaqi expressed gratitude for the generous hospitality of the Iranian people toward Afghan migrants and refugees over the past five decades. He stated that the return of Afghan migrants is a priority for the Islamic Emirate and that efforts will be made to pursue this issue more seriously in light of improved security and economic conditions.
Regarding water issues between the two countries, Muttaqi said, "Water should be a means to preserve and enhance friendship between the two nations. Afghanistan remains committed to its obligations regarding Iran's water rights. The entire region is grappling with drought due to climate change, and Afghanistan is also a victim of this drought. We seek a solution that benefits both sides. There are no other obstacles in this matter, as it is solely dependent on increased rainfall. Hopefully, this year will bring good results."
Muttaqi also emphasized Afghanistan's commitment to ensuring security, particularly along the shared border with Iran. He affirmed the interim government's dedication to taking all necessary measures to safeguard border security and to prevent and combat any acts of aggression or terrorism that could endanger the security of the two nations.