Araghchi: Our Region’s Shared Future is Linked to Afghanistan’s Future

According to Rokna, citing the government’s official information portal, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, during a special meeting of representatives from Afghanistan’s neighboring countries and Russia, welcomed the attendees and described the session as an important opportunity for consultation and exchange of views on one of the region’s most critical issues. He noted that holding such meetings reflects the significance of strengthening stability, regional cohesion, and cooperation for jointly managing challenges.

Referring to the invitation extended to Afghanistan to participate in the meeting, he added: “The Islamic Republic of Iran believes that Afghanistan’s participation could have accelerated the process of integrating the country into regional political and economic matters. However, we respect the Afghan side’s decision not to attend, and this decision will have no impact on bilateral relations.”

The Foreign Minister described Afghanistan as a country with a rich cultural and civilizational heritage and extensive human, economic, transit, and natural capacities. He stated that Afghanistan’s geoeconomic position places it at the center of communication networks connecting Central Asia, West Asia, and South Asia, and that the country’s security and development are directly linked to the interests of all neighboring states.

Araghchi emphasized: “Experience over the past decades has shown that peace, security, and prosperity in Afghanistan cannot be achieved without active cooperation and participation of regional countries. The shared future of our region is intertwined with Afghanistan’s future.”

He added that the Islamic Republic of Iran has always emphasized constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and the use of indigenous mechanisms. Iran has acquired valuable experience in areas such as transport, trade, consular services, and energy, and believes that regional integration can create a sustainable framework for cooperation regarding Afghanistan.

The Foreign Minister highlighted that establishing regular dialogue mechanisms among Afghanistan’s neighboring countries is a strategic necessity. He explained that such meetings help prevent misunderstandings, facilitate coordination of policies and economic, border, and humanitarian programs, strengthen mutual understanding, and reduce tensions.

In conclusion, Araghchi pointed to significant regional economic developments, including the expansion of corridors and the emergence of new energy and trade axes. He noted that Afghanistan, by improving its domestic conditions, can become a connecting link between Central Asia, South Asia, and West Asia, playing a key role in regional energy transit and trade—a goal that requires the concerted effort and cooperation of all regional countries.