Iran, Afghanistan review issues of mutual interest

The meeting was held in Kabul between Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araqchi and Afghanistan’s FM Mohammed Haneef Atmar, Mehr News Agency (MNA) reported.

The two also exchanged views on importance of the continuation of bilateral efforts to achieve lasting peace in Afghanistan and ensure economic stability and development in the region.

Araqchi said that the development of Tehran-Kabul ties is ‘significant’ for the promotion of regional connectivity and economic prosperity.

The two also discussed holding Iran-Afghanistan Economic Commission. 

The Afghan FM, for his part, thanked the Iranian diplomat for his efforts regarding the opening of the Khaf-Herat railway joint project that was officially inaugurated on Thursday by the Iranian and Afghan presidents.

He said Tehran-Kabul cooperation and their joint efforts are 'important and influential' in line with strengthening regional consensus for the success of Afghan Peace talks.

Araqchi also met with head of the Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah on Saturday. The two discussed whatever progress that might have been made in Afghanistan’s peace negotiations, Iran’s role in bringing about peace to Afghanistan and other bilateral issues.

The Afghan official used the opportunity to appreciate Tehran’s cooperation with Kabul and its support for the peace process.

Araqchi further exchanged views with his Afghan counterpart Mirwais Nab, National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib, and former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai on the issue of mutual concerns.

The potential conclusion of a comprehensive long-term cooperation agreement between Iran and Afghanistan as well as further development of the two sides’ political, economic, and trade ties were among other subject matters that came up during Araqchi’s discussions with Afghan officials.

Speaking to IRNA on the sidelines of the meetings, Araqchi said that the comprehensive cooperation agreement would be finalized “soon”.

The document comprises five parts, four of which have been agreed upon, he said, expressing hope that the outstanding segment pertaining to security affairs would likely be finalized during his visit.

“The document outlines the outlook of Iran and Afghanistan’s long-term relations and sets the principles governing them,” he said, stating that the agreement “plays an important role in strengthening the relations.”

Source: Iran Daily