Iran Backs Development, Security in Afghanistan: Iranian MP
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - The Iranian parliamentarian and the Head of Iran-Afghanistan parliamentary friendship group expressed Tehran’s support for any approaches leading to development and security establishment in the neighboring country Afghanistan.
Gholamreza Asadollahi made the remarks during his meeting with the Head of the Women's Affairs Committee of Afghan Meshrano Jirga (Senate) Sediqa Balkhi in Tehran on Saturday. Commenting on the deep historical and cultural bonds between Iranian and Afghan nations, the Iranian lawmaker also called for expansion of ties between Kabul and Tehran.
“Historical, religious, and lingual common points have prepared a good ground for political, economic, and cultural interactions between the two countries,” added Asadollahi.
The Iranian MP noted that stability and security in Afghanistan will positively affect the regional peace, reiterating that the Islamic Republic of Iran believes that sustainable development in Afghanistan should be gained only by the Afghans themselves.
The head of Iran-Afghanistan parliamentary friendship group also hailed the recent presidential election in Afghanistan as an introduction to the development of civil society and democracy in the country.
Balkhi for her part pointed to spiritual and financial supports offered by Iran’s government and nation during years of war in Afghanistan. She emphasized the importance of developing ties with neighbors especially Iran, adding that high-ranking Afghan political and parliamentary officials are willing to increase political, economic, and cultural ties with Iran.
Afghanistan shares a long and intertwined history with Iran. The two countries also have a shared language and similar cultures and enjoy friendly and brotherly relations.