Is Iran Prepared to Assist in Mitigating Pak-Afghan Tensions?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Iran and Afghanistan are prioritizing dialogue over military confrontation.
- Cooperation on the Helmand River is a key issue in their discussions.
- Iran expresses readiness to help ease tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- Border security and drug trafficking are critical areas of cooperation.
- Both nations aim to maintain stability to prevent humanitarian crises.
Tehran, Oct 18 (NationPress) The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, engaged in a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Saturday, amidst escalating tensions between Kabul and Islamabad.
During their discussion, both ministers analyzed regional events and bilateral relations, with Araghchi emphasizing the need for restraint and dialogue to address conflicts, cooperation on the Helmand River, border security, and fostering regional peace and stability.
In the course of the call, Araghchi expressed serious concern regarding the recent confrontations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. He urged both nations to show restraint and cease hostilities, warning that ongoing tensions could not only result in humanitarian crises but also threaten the stability of the broader region.
The Iranian foreign minister reiterated Tehran's commitment to assist in alleviating tensions and promoting constructive dialogue between the two nations. Muttaqi, in turn, updated Araghchi on the latest developments, affirming that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan prioritizes dialogue and peace over military conflict, according to Mehr News Agency.
Additionally, the two ministers deliberated on the subject of Helmand River water rights, highlighting the necessity of adhering to existing water agreements, enhancing technical collaboration, and jointly managing resources to prevent wastage while ensuring Iran's rightful share during the current season.
On Friday, Iranian and Afghan officials convened in Kabul to explore security cooperation and methods to ensure safety along their shared border.
This meeting in Kabul included Iran’s Ambassador to Afghanistan Alireza Bikdeli, Mohammad Reza Bahrami, Director General for South Asia at the Iranian Foreign Ministry, and the Taliban's interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani.
The discussions focused on security cooperation and border matters between the neighboring nations. The two parties also engaged in detailed consultations regarding joint initiatives to combat drug trafficking and improve coordination along their common border. The Iranian delegation highlighted the significance of maintaining stability along shared borders and continuing dialogue to resolve issues through understanding and collaboration. Haqqani underscored the importance of regional cooperation, asserting that the Taliban aspires to establish amicable relations based on mutual respect with all countries, particularly their neighbors, as reported by Tasnim News Agency.