Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Kabul for the first time in eight years, discussing border tensions, Afghan refugees, and water rights with Taliban officials. He affirmed Iran’s commitment to the return of Afghan refugees and emphasized the importance of mutual respect and cooperation between the two countries.
On January 26, 2025, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a significant diplomatic visit to Kabul, marking the first such visit by an Iranian foreign minister in eight years. During his meeting with Taliban officials, discussions focused on critical issues including border tensions, the situation of Afghan refugees in Iran, and the implementation of water rights concerning the Helmand River treaty.
Foreign Minister Araghchi expressed Iran’s commitment to the return of approximately 3.5 million Afghan refugees while assuring that Iran would not interfere in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. He emphasized the importance of the Helmand River water treaty designed to promote cooperative sharing of water resources.
Afghanistan’s Acting Prime Minister, Hassan Akhund, urged Iran to regard Afghan refugees with due respect and highlighted the difficulties associated with a rapid repatriation process. He also raised concerns about the execution of Afghan individuals in Iran, noting that such incidents provoke negative public sentiment.
Furthermore, Araghchi engaged with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob, emphasizing the potential for enhanced economic relations between the two nations despite existing tensions. Although Iran does not officially recognize the Taliban government, it maintains vital political and economic engagements with Kabul, including the management of Afghanistan’s embassy in Tehran by the Taliban.
The visit by Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Kabul is significant given the historical context of Iran-Afghanistan relations, particularly since the Taliban’s ascension to power in 2021. Iran’s previous foreign ministerial visits were halted for eight years, reflecting a period of strained relations amid regional and geopolitical shifts. Iran’s position on Afghan refugees and water resource management underscores ongoing humanitarian and environmental concerns between the two countries, which share a long border and mutual interests.
In conclusion, Abbas Araghchi’s visit to Kabul symbolizes an important step in Iran’s diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan. The discussions surrounding Afghan refugees, border security, and water rights are crucial for fostering stability between the two nations. With a focus on strengthening economic ties and mutual cooperation, this visit could serve as a foundation for improved bilateral relations moving forward.
Original Source: apnews.com
