Iran’s Foreign Minister Engages in Historic Talks with Taliban in Kabul
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Kabul on January 26, 2025, for the first time in eight years, to discuss border tensions, refugee treatment, and the Helmand River water treaty with Taliban officials. The discussions highlighted Iran’s commitment to Afghan refugees and aimed at enhancing economic ties, despite Iran’s non-recognition of the Taliban government.
On January 26, 2025, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Kabul, Afghanistan, marking the first visit by an Iranian foreign minister in eight years. During his meetings with top Taliban officials, including Afghanistan’s Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund, the discussions centered on crucial issues such as border tensions, the treatment of Afghan refugees in Iran, and shared water rights.
Mr. Araghchi expressed Iran’s commitment to facilitating the return of approximately 3.5 million Afghan refugees and emphasized that Iran would refrain from intervening in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. Additionally, he advocated for the full observance of the Helmand River water treaty, which governs the management of shared water resources.
Mr. Akhund urged Iran to respect the rights of Afghan refugees, emphasizing that a rapid repatriation was not feasible. He also pointed out that incidents such as the execution of Afghans in Iran elicited negative public reactions. Mr. Araghchi also engaged with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob during his visit.
Earlier in the day, Mr. Araghchi underscored his hopes for enhanced economic cooperation and improved diplomatic relations with Afghanistan, acknowledging the historical fluctuations in their relationship. Although Iran does not officially recognize the Taliban government, established following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces in 2021, Iran continues to maintain political and economic interactions while permitting the Taliban to oversee Afghanistan’s embassy in Tehran.
The visit of Iran’s Foreign Minister to Kabul represents a notable shift in diplomatic engagements between Iran and Afghanistan, particularly in light of the regional dynamics since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. Iran, which has historically had a complex relationship with the Taliban, is focusing on humanitarian and diplomatic dialogue, particularly concerning the status of Afghan refugees and border issues. The reference to the Helmand River water treaty underscores ongoing tensions over resource management in the region, highlighting Iran’s interest in maintaining cooperative relations despite political challenges.
The meeting between Iran’s Foreign Minister and Taliban officials signifies an attempt to address pressing bilateral issues, including humanitarian concerns regarding Afghan refugees and resource management. While these discussions do not imply formal recognition of the Taliban government by Iran, they reflect a pragmatic approach to fostering stable relations in the region. Continued dialogue is crucial as both nations navigate complex political environments while upholding mutual interests.
Original Source: apnews.com
