Iran, Afghanistan confer on expanding relations

KABUL (Pajhwok): After years of drought in the country, recent rains have jacked up water levels in Helmand River in Nimroz and Sistan-Balochistan provinces of neighboring Iran, the foreign minister said on Monday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said in a statement Amir Khan Muttaqi made the remarks at a meeting with Hassan Kazemi Qomi, the Iranian special envoy and ambassador in Kabul.

Both sides discussed issues including regional developments, strengthening bilateral ties and other topics of mutual interests, the statement said.

The Iranian diplomat thanked the Islamic Emirate for its stance on the brazen aggression of the "Zionist regime" in Gaza, condemning the Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus.

He expressed his pleasure over the removal of hurdles to Helmand river’s water flowing into Sistan-Balochistan province.

The special representative called water a crucial factor in enhancing bilateral ties between the countries. He hoped the flow of water into Iran would continue.

The acting foreign minister viewed Afghanistan-Iran relations as positive and desired greater cooperation between the neighbours.

Muttaqi said: “By the grace of Allah, it rained a lot in the country after years of drought. The Helmand River water flows through Nimroz into Sistan - Balochistan province of Iran.”

Both sides emphasised on further upgrading bilateral relations based on the principle of good neighbourliness, the statement concluded.

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