On Sunday, Interim Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in Kabul for important bilateral talks. This marks Araghchi’s first visit to the Afghan capital since his appointment as Iran’s foreign minister last year.
The discussions between the two officials covered a range of topics vital to both countries, with a particular emphasis on enhancing bilateral relations and fostering economic cooperation. According to Afghan Foreign Ministry spokesman Hafiz Zia, key issues discussed included the situation of Afghan refugees in Iran, the management of their shared border, and water-sharing agreements between the two nations.
Minister Muttaqi emphasized the significance of Araghchi’s visit, stating that it would provide momentum for strengthening relations and usher in a new phase of collaboration between Afghanistan and Iran. Both ministers expressed a commitment to deepening ties and working together on regional issues, including stability and economic growth.
The visit comes at a time when the Taliban-led interim administration in Afghanistan seeks to solidify diplomatic and economic partnerships, particularly with its neighboring countries, after the withdrawal of foreign forces in 2021. The talks were seen as a pivotal moment in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize Afghanistan’s relations with its neighbors and foster peaceful cooperation on shared challenges.
Araghchi’s visit signals Iran’s continued engagement with Afghanistan, focusing on practical solutions to regional issues, and demonstrates a shared interest in improving stability and mutual cooperation between the two nations.