Time for Afghanistan, Iran to boost economic ties: Muttaqi

KABUL (Pajhwok): Iranian President Special Representative for Afghanistan Kazemi Qoumi has called on Acting Foreign Minister Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi and held talks about a number of issues of vital importance.

Acting Foreign Minister Muttaqi said that it is high time to have a surge in economic transactions with Iran and requested that facilities be created in the field of trade & transit.

FM Muttaqi added that the restrictions on banking accounts of Afghan traders in Iranian banks be uplifted, meanwhile raising the problems of Afghan refugees and traders thereof in Iran.

FM Muttaqi discussed with the Iranian delegation the release and fate of Afghan prisoners in Iranian prisons and their handover to the Afghan government.

Making a mention of the incident and subsequent events in Kerman, FM Muttaqi asked the Iranian delegation that none should be allowed to undermine relations between these countries with such actions.

Qoumi expressed his satisfaction in visiting Afghanistan, adding that the Afghan government has shown ability at ensuring overall security in the country and controls entire geography of Afghanistan.

In response to FM. Muttaqi's views and request, he said that it is necessary to bring about facilities for the growth of transit and trade between Iran and regarding the bank accounts of Afghan traders, Mr.Qoumi stated that he had shared the matter with the central bank and the problem will be resolved soon, adding that he will hold meetings with relevant institutions to resolve the problems of Afghan prisoners and laborers.

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