Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for enhanced cooperation with the Taliban, particularly in economic and consular matters, during a meeting with Majid Rezapanah, Iran’s newly appointed consul general to Jalalabad.
The meeting took place ahead of Rezapanah’s departure to assume his new post in eastern Afghanistan. Rezapanah briefed Araghchi on his jurisdiction, the consular capacity in the region, and his proposed plans for executing diplomatic responsibilities. Previously, Rezapanah served as the head of Iran’s Consular and Judicial Protection Department at the Foreign Ministry.
Despite strained ties, Iran has pursued a dual-track policy toward Afghanistan: mass deportations of migrants on one hand, and diplomatic engagement with the Taliban on the other. The influx of returnees has placed immense pressure on Afghanistan’s already fragile economy and public services. The Taliban has repeatedly urged neighboring countries to refrain from large-scale expulsions.
Iran, while deepening ties with the Taliban, remains dissatisfied with the group’s treatment of Shia communities and its stance on Afghanistan’s water rights over the Helmand River. These unresolved issues continue to complicate the evolving relationship between Tehran and Kabul.
