Iran has not recognized the Taliban government but has diplomatic relations

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Kabul on Sunday, in what is the most significant Iranian official visit to the Afghan capital since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. The one-day trip aims to strengthen bilateral relations and advance mutual interests, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei.

Araghchi met with his Afghan counterpart, Amir Khan Muttaqi, and is scheduled to meet with Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Abdul Ghani Baradar. Discussions are expected to focus on border security, political ties, and expanding economic cooperation.

The visit comes amidst heightened tensions between the two countries stemming from long-standing disputes over water rights, particularly concerning the Helmand and Harirud rivers and the construction of dams.

Iran’s concerns regarding the influx of Afghan immigrants from the 900-km border have led to increased border security measures. In September 2023, Iran announced the construction of a wall along a section of its eastern border with Afghanistan, citing efforts to combat fuel and goods smuggling, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration. In December, Iran’s UN ambassador stated that over six million Afghans have sought refuge in Iran.

While Iran maintains has diplomatic relations in Afghanistan, it has yet to formally recognize the Taliban government.