The first visit of the new Iranian Foreign Minister to Afghanistan

Maulavi Amir Khan Muttaqi, Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, warmly welcomed his Iranian counterpart, Mr. Dr. Seyed Abbas Araqchi, in Kabul. During the meeting, both sides discussed bilateral relations between Afghanistan and Iran, economic cooperation, the situation of Afghan refugees in Iran, issues related to common borders, and water-related issues.

Mr. Muttaqi emphasized the promotion of diplomatic relations based on the common interests and common points of the two countries. The effort to improve these relations reflects Afghanistan’s determination to engage constructively with its neighbors and secure common interests. He also stated that Afghanistan has achieved sustainable security after decades of war, which is in the interest of the entire region.

Afghanistan’s sustainable security is an important achievement that can encourage Iran to cooperate more. The Afghan Foreign Minister called for cooperation to improve the situation of Afghan refugees in Iran and emphasized that the dignified return of the refugees is a priority of the Islamic Emirate, but this process will take time. The request to improve the situation of the refugees and their dignified return shows a humane and responsible approach by the Afghan government.

Mr. Mottaqi also spoke about water issues and the effects of climate change, stating that the drought caused by climate change has also affected Afghanistan and that the country is a victim of these conditions. He emphasized that the Afghan government views the people of different regions, including Helmand, Nimroz, and Sistan, with the same perspective and intends to observe justice in the management of water resources. Mr. Mottaqi emphasized that solving water problems depends on increasing rainfall and improving climate conditions and should not be limited solely to human policies and decisions.

Mr. Araqchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, considered the Afghan government’s fight against drugs effective and suggested that the relevant institutions of both countries share their experiences with each other in the field of combating drugs.

The fight against drugs by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is one of the key and sensitive issues in the policies and programs of this government. In recent years, the Islamic Emirate has announced that the cultivation, production, and trafficking of opium and other drugs is prohibited and that those who engage in these activities will be dealt with legally. The security forces of the Islamic Emirate have tried to confront drug traffickers and limit smuggling routes.

Both Iran and Afghanistan have valuable experiences in confronting drug traffickers. The exchange of these experiences can lead to increased technical and operational capabilities of responsible institutions in both countries and provide more effective ways to address this challenge.