Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Kabul for the first time in eight years, focusing on Afghan refugees, border tensions, and water rights. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to returning 3.5 million Afghan refugees without interfering in Afghanistan’s politics. The talks included agreements on shared water resources and respect for Afghan refugees amid regional tensions.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Kabul on January 26, 2025, marking the first visit by an Iranian foreign minister in eight years. During his discussions with top Taliban officials, they focused on issues such as border tensions, the situation of Afghan refugees in Iran, and water rights management. Araghchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to supporting the return of approximately 3.5 million Afghan refugees while emphasizing non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.
The talks also included an appeal for adherence to the Helmand River water treaty, ensuring equitable access to shared water resources. Acting Prime Minister Hassan Akhund urged Iran to treat Afghan refugees with dignity and noted the challenges of large-scale repatriation. He highlighted provocative incidents, such as executions of Afghans in Iran, which have affected public perceptions.
In addition to meeting Taliban leaders, Araghchi conferred with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob. He expressed aspirations for strengthened economic relations and more stable diplomatic ties with Afghanistan, noting the historical fluctuations between the two countries. Despite not officially recognizing the Taliban government, Iran continues to maintain essential political and economic connections with Afghanistan.
The visit by Iran’s foreign minister is significant as it occurs amid ongoing tensions and developments in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. Iran shares a lengthy border with Afghanistan and has historically been involved in Afghan politics. The current discussions aim to address humanitarian issues related to Afghan refugees, access to water resources, and the management of bilateral relations in a complex political landscape, where formal recognition remains absent but economic partnerships persist. Taliban’s governance has been contentious, and their relationships with neighboring countries are critical for stability in the region. Iran’s advocacy for refugee rights and water management highlights its vested interests in Afghanistan’s socio-political landscape while attempting to balance its non-interference policy. Iran’s foreign minister’s engagement with Taliban officials reflects a practical approach to regional diplomacy, emphasizing cooperation despite ideological differences and the former government’s lack of recognition.
In summary, Iran’s foreign minister’s visit to Kabul represents a crucial dialogue focused on pressing issues such as refugee treatment, water resource management, and bilateral relations. The discussions underscore Iran’s commitment to humanitarian concerns while navigating a complex political dynamic with the Taliban government. Despite serious challenges, both nations aim to fortify their relations and address existing tensions through diplomatic channels.
Original Source: apnews.com
