Baghaei: Contacts and interactions between Afghanistan and Iran proceeding at good level

KABUL (Pajhwok) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei said contacts and interactions between Afghanistan and Iran are proceeding at a good level, commenting on recent remarks by the Iranian charge d'affaires in Kabul about potential recognition of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Alireza Bikdeli, charge d'affaires at Iran's embassy in Kabul, stated on Feb. 21 that there is no obstacle to recognizing the Islamic Emirate and that Tehran would announce a legal decision on recognition at an appropriate time to strengthen multifaceted ties.

Baghaei, speaking at a press conference on Monday, described the recognition issue as a long-standing sovereign and political matter. "Whenever a definitive conclusion is reached on recognizing the Islamic Emirate, it will be announced by Iran's Foreign Ministry," he said, according to Iran's IRNA news agency.

He emphasized that relations between the two countries are based on mutual respect and common interests, adding that their cultural, civilizational and religious ties require no further emphasis.

Baghaei also highlighted shared concerns, including border insecurity, drug smuggling and other common issues, which he said require cooperative action.

The remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic engagement between Kabul and Tehran.