Iran priorities cooperation with neighbouring countries

Fazli highlighted the policy of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, who favors strengthening all kinds of ties with the neighbors of the Islamic Republic, including Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Arab states.

He recalled that there is a communion of religion, language, culture, history and geography among all, and noted Iran’s invariable support for the Afghan people during the occupation of the Soviet army, against the extremist Taliban militia and in the reconstruction period.

The Iranian interior minister, who spoke at a ceremony to commemorate Afghanistan’s National Day, made emphasis on expanding and strengthening cooperation, as well as supporting the efforts for national reconciliation made by the neighboring state.

He pointed out that the similar viewpoints between Tehran and Kabul go beyond their disagreements on certain bilateral issues, and explained that Iran cannot be indifferent to insecurity along its borders, due to terrorist activities.

“We are ready to boost cooperation on regional and international plans against terrorism and drug trafficking, despite their high cost,” the minister stressed.

He pointed out that in order to reestablish security in Afghanistan, foreign troops are not necessary, as Afghan national forces have considerable experience and can defend their country’s sovereignty by themselves.

Fazli pointed out that Iran has invested 370 million dollars in development projects in Afghanistan and is willing to assist Kabul to fight drug trafficking and terrorism in coordination with other states in the region and the international community.