Iranian Envoy Predicts Strengthened Relations with Afghanistan in the Coming Year

HOA
By HOA
2 Min Read

Alireza Bikdeli, acting Iran’s ambassador in Kabul, stated in an interview with TOLOnews that Iran, following its neighborhood policy, is working to enhance relations with Afghanistan in various sectors.

Bikdeli emphasized that expanding economic ties with Afghanistan is a priority for Tehran. According to available figures, Iran has conducted over $2 billion in trade with Afghanistan in the past nine months. He also noted that Iran has taken significant steps to facilitate trade and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

The Iranian envoy further stated: “Despite the determination of high-ranking officials from both countries to strengthen relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Afghanistan within the framework of neighborhood diplomacy, the coming year, God willing, will be more successful in advancing mutual interests.”

Regarding the long-standing issue of water rights between Afghanistan and Iran, Bikdeli asserted that recent discussions between the two sides have led to a resolution.

He elaborated: “During the recent visit of the Foreign Minister, Afghan officials reaffirmed their commitment to the treaty and expressed their willingness to address water-related challenges in Sistan and Baluchestan with an Islamic and fraternal approach.”

Additionally, Bikdeli praised Afghanistan’s ban on opium cultivation and drug trafficking, affirming Iran’s readiness to collaborate in countering drug smuggling and terrorism.

“The fight against terrorism and extremism is a key area of cooperation between our countries. At present, both nations are working together in combating terrorism,” he said.

Bikdeli’s remarks on expanding ties with Afghanistan come amid ongoing tensions over Iran’s water rights from Afghanistan and the periodic deportation of Afghan migrants from Iran, which have occasionally strained relations between the two neighbors.

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