Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, discussed the evolving situation in Afghanistan in a recent interview with an Iranian news agency, emphasizing the establishment of governance and security over the past three and a half years. Araghchi pointed out that Afghanistan’s political landscape has shifted significantly, with a unified political power now in control, contrasting with the fragmented situation of the past.
“The reality is that now in Afghanistan, a power is in charge that over the past three and a half years has consolidated its authority. Unlike the past, when each corner of Afghanistan was controlled by different groups, it is no longer the case. Security is established, and we must address and resolve these issues in line with our national interests,” Araghchi said.
The Iranian foreign minister underscored several critical issues shaping Iran’s relations with Afghanistan. Among the primary concerns were the ongoing drug trade, the presence of Afghan migrants in Iran, border security, and water rights.
Araghchi highlighted the challenges posed by narcotics and Afghan migration:
“There is the issue of drugs, the issue of Afghan migrants, which has become a sensitive topic within our country, and people say something must be done about it. There is also the security of our borders; we have around a thousand kilometers of shared border, and the security of every meter of it is important to us.”
The Iranian official’s remarks reflect Iran’s strategic concerns and its efforts to ensure regional stability, given the shared border and the cross-border dynamics of the two nations.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has welcomed Araghchi’s comments, particularly his acknowledgment of the established security and governance in the country. Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, stated that Araghchi’s remarks demonstrate a deep understanding of Afghanistan’s current realities.
“This, in essence, means a correct understanding of the current realities in Afghanistan. The reality is that there is a unified political authority in Afghanistan that holds comprehensive control over the entire territory,” Fitrat explained.
Janat Faheem Chakari, a political analyst, emphasized the potential for improving bilateral relations between Afghanistan and Iran. He said,
“The more the relations and exchanges between Afghanistan and Iran increase, the easier it becomes to address challenges and find appropriate solutions to the concerns of both sides.”
Despite positive economic and political relations over the past three years, challenges such as the expulsion of Afghan migrants from Iran, border security concerns, and disputes over water rights have continued to affect the relationship between Kabul and Tehran.
As the political landscape in Afghanistan stabilizes, both nations face the complex task of addressing these issues and fostering more constructive cooperation moving forward.
For further updates on Afghanistan-Iran relations and regional developments, visit www.u.af.
