WANA (Jan 27) –  Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasized the importance of the security of Iran-Afghanistan borders. He stated that both sides agree on the seriousness of border security, noting that although certain measures have been implemented in the past, most of them are still in use.

 

Speaking to reporters about the conclusion of his trip to Afghanistan, Araghchi said: “Iran and Afghanistan are two very close neighbors, sharing a common religion, language, and culture. We have a long history, shared beliefs, and cultural ties, and the fate of one country has always impacted the other.”

 

Araghchi pointed out that over the past 45 years, Afghanistan has undergone numerous transformations, including internal conflicts and other crises, all of which have affected Iran. These include waves of refugees entering Iran, drug trafficking issues, and the presence of terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS. Iran has always borne the impact of these developments in Afghanistan.

 

He highlighted the natural sensitivity of Iran to Afghanistan’s destiny, emphasizing the need to manage this relationship effectively.

 

Araghchi stated, “In recent years, significant changes have occurred, including the establishment of a new government in Afghanistan. Regardless of the level or nature of our political relations, there are many issues between the two countries that require attention.”

 

He listed several key issues, including water rights, migration, security, border management, and trade relations. He stressed that managing these challenges requires dialogue and cooperation.

 

Iran and Afghanistan Discuss Defense and Security Cooperation

WANA (Jan 26) – Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of Iran, who is visiting Kabul for discussions with officials of Afghanistan’s Interim Government, met with Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqub Mujahid, the Minister of National Defense of Afghanistan and discussed the relationship between Afghanistan and Iran, particularly in the areas of defense and security.   Iran’s […]

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“Regardless of how our political relations are defined, there are realities, challenges, and mutual interests that we must address in our foreign policy. This trip aimed to discuss the pressing issues between us and Afghanistan and find common ground,” he said.

 

Araghchi reported fruitful meetings with Afghanistan’s Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and Defense Minister. He emphasized that both sides are committed to addressing challenges and finding solutions.

 

Among the discussed topics, border security was highlighted as a major concern. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of securing the borders and agreed to implement existing measures more effectively.

 

Water rights were another critical issue. According to Araghchi, Afghan officials expressed a constructive and positive stance, assuring that Iran’s water rights under the Helmand Treaty would be honored. They even described it as a religious and moral duty to provide water to Iran, irrespective of the treaty. Both sides agreed to address technical issues collaboratively, especially considering the impact of regional droughts.

 

Regarding migration, Araghchi acknowledged the increasing number of Afghan refugees in Iran as a serious concern. Both sides discussed ways to facilitate the dignified return of undocumented migrants to Afghanistan and improve conditions for them in their homeland. While acknowledging that this process would take time, they agreed on the need to begin collaborative efforts.

 

In summary, Araghchi expressed optimism about the outcomes of the trip, stating that there is now a better understanding between Iran and the Afghan government. He noted that mutual concerns have decreased, interactions have improved, and Iran’s interests have largely been addressed. He concluded by expressing hope that the two countries will continue along this path of cooperation.