KABUL, Jan 27 (Alliance News): Iran and Afghanistan have called for enhanced cooperation during a visit to Kabul by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday, marking the highest-level Iranian delegation to visit since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021.
Araghchi met Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Taliban Prime Minister Hassan Akhund to discuss bilateral issues, including migration, border disputes, water rights, and economic collaboration.
Iran praised the countries’ political, economic, and trade relations. “This visit aims to expand ties in security and economic sectors,” said Araghchi.
Muttaqi expressed optimism, noting that the discussions would inject momentum into bilateral relations and usher in a new phase of cooperation.
Migration and Water Issues Dominate Talks
Water resources remain a contentious issue as tensions have risen over dams built on the Helmand and Harirud rivers.
Araghchi urged full adherence to bilateral water treaties, while Muttaqi attributed water shortages to regional climate-induced droughts.
The Afghan side requested better treatment for Afghan migrants in Iran and support for their dignified return. Migrants have alleged mistreatment by Iranian authorities, including harassment and wrongful deportation. Iranian officials have refuted these claims, stressing respectful repatriation efforts.
Iran, which shares over 900 kilometers of border with Afghanistan, is a host to millions of Afghan refugees. The migrant flow has surged since the Taliban came to power, prompting Iran to bolster border defenses with measures including a border wall, barbed wire, and water-filled ditches.
Though Tehran has active ties with the Taliban government, it has yet to officially recognize its rule.