Afghanistan desires negotiated settlement to all disputes: MoFA

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan has reaffirmed its commitment to resolve water dispute with Iran through talks and bilateral engagement, according to a statement on Saturday.

Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has held a meeting with Iran’s Ambassador to Afghanistan Hassan Kazimi Qummi and his assistant in Kabul, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said.

Qummi briefed Muttaqi on recent Doha meeting and said that Iranian delegation defended current situation in Afghanistan during the meeting.

The Iranian envoy also stressed over better border management and coordination and provided information about his government recent steps in this regard.

Muttaqi hailed Iran’s stand during recent Doha meeting and stressed over cordial relationship between the two neighbors. He urged the resumption of Afghan prisoners’ extradition process, delay to the execution of Afghan prisoners and facilitating the visa process to Afghans.

The statement said the Afghan foreign minister stressed over the resolution of all disputes through talks.

Both sides also discussed matters related to the water disputes and other bilateral issues.

Afghanistan and Iran back in 1972 signed a water agreement on the bases of which Afghanistan annually provide a specific amount of water to Iran.

Earlier, Iranian President Ibrahim Raeesi had asked Afghan official to provide Iran its due right in Helmand water and warned against consequences in case of denial.