Iran, Afghanistan can curb opium cultivation: Mottaki

Tehran Times

Tehran - Iranian Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki expressed hope here on Sunday that Iran and Afghanistan would be able to curb the cultivation of opium in Afghanistan through cooperation.

“Iran and Afghanistan can jointly uproot this negative phenomenon by encouraging international organizations to help sponsor replacement crops,” Mottaki told Afghan Foreign Minister Rangin Dadar Spanta.

Mottaki stated that the recent tripartite diplomatic efforts by Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan initiated by Tehran with the aim of promoting regional security and stability have been warmly welcomed.

Sepanta said that Iran and Afghanistan share a common culture and history that can be used as a foundation to boost bilateral ties.

He went on to say that Afghanistan is interested in expanding relations with Iran in all areas, adding that the establishment of a joint economic commission and political committees is essential and in the interests of both countries.

The Afghan nation and government oppose any attempt to threaten the security of neighboring states, he asserted.

Sepanta also welcomed Tehran’s initiative to hold tripartite talks between Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan to boost security and stability in the region.