Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Kabul, marking the first official visit by an Iranian foreign minister to Afghanistan in eight years. The visit underscores the growing importance of diplomatic engagement between the two neighboring nations, with discussions expected to focus on key political, economic, and security issues.
According to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, the visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and advance shared interests. During his stay, Araghchi is set to meet with Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. These meetings are expected to cover a range of pressing regional issues.
A key point of discussion will likely be the long-standing dispute over water rights. Tensions have escalated in recent years over Afghanistan’s construction of dams on the Helmand and Harirud rivers, which Iran argues have negatively impacted its water supply. Given the strategic significance of these water sources, both sides are expected to seek a resolution that mitigates future conflicts.
Beyond water rights, border security, political cooperation, and economic collaboration will also be central to the discussions. Iran has played a pivotal role as a trade and energy partner for Afghanistan, and both countries are looking to expand economic ties in ways that could enhance regional stability.
Additionally, Iran has been a major host of Afghan refugees for over four decades, providing shelter to millions fleeing conflict. This humanitarian dimension of their relationship is expected to be part of the dialogue, particularly in light of evolving regional dynamics.
Araghchi’s visit signals a renewed commitment to diplomatic engagement, with the potential to shape the future of Iran-Afghanistan relations. The outcome of these discussions could significantly influence the region’s political and economic landscape in the years to come.