Iran’s Foreign Minister Emphasizes Afghan People’s Right to Self-Determination
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araqchi has stated that the political future of Afghanistan must be based on the people’s right to self-determination, adding that no government can be sustainable without the genuine participation of its citizens.
According to IRNA, Araqchi made these remarks during his recent trip to Russia while speaking at a university. He highlighted that there are serious and multifaceted challenges between Iran and Afghanistan, including border security, water issues, drug trafficking, and migration.
The Iranian foreign minister further noted that Tehran is compelled to engage in dialogue with the current administration in Afghanistan to manage these issues. He emphasized that Iran has not recognized the Taliban government to date, but contacts and negotiations continue to safeguard the interests of both nations.
This stance comes amid repeated calls by Iranian officials in recent years for the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan—an appeal seen by many observers as a response to concerns over widespread political and social exclusion in the existing power structure.
In contrast, the Taliban administration claims that the current Afghan government is inclusive, with representatives from various ethnic groups participating, a claim that faces serious criticism and skepticism both inside and outside Afghanistan.
