Iran’s Ambassador Says Tehran-Taliban Relations Moving in a ‘Constructive’ Direction

Iran’s Ambassador to Kabul, Alireza Bikdeli, says relations between Tehran and the Taliban administration are moving in a “constructive” direction, a development he said would strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Fifth International Exhibition in Kabul, Bikdeli said Iran supports Afghanistan’s private sector as part of efforts to promote economic self-reliance, development and public prosperity. He said an economy-focused approach could serve as the main driver of sustainable relations, adding that improved security in Afghanistan and the expansion of ties with neighbouring countries are key elements of that policy. The Iranian diplomat said expanding infrastructure projects, including railways, highways and dams, as well as developing the industrial and agricultural sectors, could help lay the foundation for Afghanistan’s economic growth. Bikdeli also called on traders, investors and business leaders in both Iran and Afghanistan to make use of what he described as the existing “friendly and brotherly atmosphere” to expand trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. He stressed that the participation of Iran’s large delegation at the exhibition was not merely symbolic but reflected Tehran’s serious commitment to deepening cooperation with Afghanistan. According to Bikdeli, Iranian companies participating in the exhibition represent sectors including industry, mining, machinery and industrial equipment, construction materials, energy, engineering services and emerging technologies. Relations between Iran and the Taliban have in recent years combined pragmatic cooperation with deep mutual mistrust. Disputes over water rights from the Helmand River remain the most significant source of tension, although border coordination and economic and security cooperation have continued to expand.