WANA (Jan 26) – In a one-day visit to Afghanistan, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, held talks with Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan’s ruling administration. The meeting took place at the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

At the start of the meeting, Maulvi Muttaqi welcomed the Iranian delegation, expressing hope that the visit would enhance bilateral relations. “Iran and Afghanistan are two neighboring Muslim nations that have always stood by each other in joy and sorrow,” he said. He also added, “We hope your visit will yield fruitful results.”

 

Seyed Abbas Araghchi emphasized the strong ties between the two nations, stating, “Iran and Afghanistan are two friendly, brotherly, and Muslim countries with deep historical and cultural connections. Throughout history, we have maintained good relations.”

 

In this meeting, the two sides discussed economic cooperation, the situation of Afghan nationals in Iran, water issues, security, shared borders, and regional developments.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, meeting with Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, on January 26, 2024. Social media/ WANA News Agency

The Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran highlighted the extensive commonalities between Iran and Afghanistan and emphasized the necessity of utilizing the deep ties between the two nations to serve mutual interests based on the principle of good neighborliness. He reiterated Iran’s readiness to expand cooperation between the two countries.

 

Araghchi underscored the importance of Afghanistan’s collaboration to safeguard the shared interests of both nations, particularly regarding water issues, Afghan migrants, and border security. He reaffirmed the Islamic Republic of Iran’s readiness to strengthen economic, trade, and cultural relations.

 

The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan acknowledged the strong connections and shared values between the people of Afghanistan and Iran as a solid foundation for continued and enhanced cooperation. He expressed a desire to expand relations in all areas.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, meeting with Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, on January 26, 2024. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, while appreciating the generous hospitality of the Iranian people toward Afghan migrants and refugees over the past five decades, stated that the return of migrants is a priority for the Islamic Emirate. He noted that efforts are underway to pursue this matter more seriously, considering improvements in security and economic conditions.

 

Regarding water issues between the two countries, Muttaqi remarked, “The issue of water should serve as a means to preserve and enhance the friendship between the two nations. Afghanistan is committed to its obligations regarding Iran’s water rights. The entire region is suffering from drought due to climate change, and Afghanistan is also a victim. We aim to ensure that both sides benefit. There are no other barriers in this matter except for increased rainfall, and we hope this year will be fruitful, God willing.”

 

Muttaqi also emphasized Afghanistan’s commitment to security, particularly along the shared border with Iran. He affirmed the caretaker government’s dedication to taking all necessary measures to ensure border security and combat any acts of aggression or terrorism that might threaten the safety of both nations.