Afghanistan, Iran discuss easing visa procedures and expanding border trade

Afghan and Iranian officials have held talks in Herat on easing visa procedures, expanding bilateral trade, and improving transport and transit links at their shared border.

According to the Herat governor’s office, Iran’s Deputy Ambassador to Afghanistan, Seyed Hassan Mortazavi, accompanied by the Iranian Consul General in Herat, met with Herat Governor Maulana Islamjar to discuss strengthening economic, trade, and transit cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

During the meeting, Islamjar stressed the importance of simplifying visa issuance for citizens of both countries, increasing trade through the Islam Qala border crossing, and resolving transportation challenges at the Dogharoon–Islam Qala border.

Mortazavi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to closer coordination with Afghanistan, saying Tehran is working to facilitate visa issuance, improve cross-border trade, and increase the movement of commercial goods.

He added that efforts are also underway to address existing trade and transit challenges, highlighting the importance of stronger economic ties and continued cooperation between Afghanistan and Iran.

The Islam Qala crossing in Herat province is one of the busiest trade gateways between Afghanistan and Iran, serving as a key route for the movement of goods and playing a vital role in bilateral commerce between the two countries.