Iranian Foreign Minister visits Afghanistan

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks with senior Taliban leaders in Kabul on Saturday, discussing border security, refugee issues, and the Helmand River water dispute.

This marked Araghchi’s first visit to Kabul since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021. He met with Taliban Prime Minister Hassan Akhund, Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, and other key figures within their regime.

During the discussions, Araghchi said Iran is committed to returning Afghan refugees, who number in the millions while emphasizing that Iran had no intention of interfering in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.

He also expressed concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis and economic instability in the country.

Akhund raised concerns about the treatment of Afghan refugees in Iran, urging Tehran to ensure their fair treatment and stressing that large-scale repatriation would not be feasible in the near term.

The talks also focused on the Helmand River water treaty, a longstanding point of contention between the two countries. Araghchi called for the full implementation of the agreement, with both sides agreeing on the importance of cooperation to prevent tensions over shared water resources.

Although Iran has not officially recognized the Taliban government, Tehran has maintained diplomatic engagement with the group since its return to power.

Iran has allowed the Taliban to operate Afghanistan’s diplomatic mission in Tehran and has pursued ongoing dialogue with Taliban leaders.