Afghan people must have the right to determine their own future: Iranian FM

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araqchi has said the people of Afghanistan must be granted the right to determine their own destiny through a representative system of governance.

According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, Araqchi made the remarks during a recent visit to Russia while speaking at a university. He said relations between Iran and Afghanistan face several challenges, including border security, water disputes, drug trafficking, and migration.

“We need to engage in dialogue with the current authorities in Afghanistan to manage these challenges and protect the interests of both the Iranian and Afghan nations,” Araqchi said. “Although we have not formally recognized the existing government in Afghanistan, we believe that all Afghans should have the right to determine their future within a governing framework. Nevertheless, we will continue our talks with the Afghan side.”

Iranian officials have repeatedly called for the establishment of an inclusive government in Afghanistan.

The Islamic Emirate, however, maintains that the current administration is inclusive, saying members of all ethnic groups are represented within the government.