Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, held an official meeting with Iran's Minister of Interior, Ahmad Wahidi

The gathering took place at the Iranian Ministry of Interior and involved esteemed representatives from the ministries of the IEA.  The meeting commenced with the Deputy Prime Minister expressing gratitude to the Iranian government for its unwavering support and assistance to the Afghan people during challenging times. He noted that Iran has consistently provided aid to Afghans in distress and continues to host millions of Afghan refugees. He highlighted the importance of further cooperation between the two friend nations in the realms of economics and security, emphasizing that a stable and prosperous Afghanistan benefits both the region and the world. He also made a request for handing over Afghan prisoners accused of various crimes in Iran. He reiterated the Islamic Emirate's commitment to enhancing Afghanistan's economic situation, enabling Afghan citizens to lead dignified lives and serve their compatriots within their homeland. Mullah Baradar Akhund underlined the priority of combating narcotics, noting significant progress in reducing drug cultivation and trafficking in Afghanistan. Minister of Interior Ahmad Wahidi welcomed the Afghan delegation, highlighting the opportunity for Iran and Afghanistan to strengthen economic and commercial ties. He emphasized Iran's support for the transit of Afghan products through its territory to boost Afghanistan's exports and asked the Afghan side to share their products for the purpose of marketing in Iran.  Wahidi viewed the settlement of Afghan refugees in Iran as a favorable business opportunity and suggested establishing a joint committee between both countries to address refugee issues. He further stressed Iran's priorities, which include border security, the establishment of common markets, anti-drug efforts, trade and transit development, and improving the quality of life in border areas. The meeting encompassed discussions on several key initiatives, including the construction of a railway from Chabahar to Nimruz, Helmand, and Kandahar, the educational opportunities for Afghan students, Iran-China connectivity through Afghanistan, and linking Uzbekistan to the Gulf of Oman via Afghanistan and then Iran. The Iranian delegation emphasized the importance of establishing a connection with China through Afghanistan, deeming it beneficial for both nations. Mullah Baradar Akhund also assured that he acknowledges the significance of this initiative and pledged to expedite its implementation.