Iran, Afghanistan resolve longstanding Hirmand river dispute: Bikdeli
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Iran and Afghanistan through extensive dialogue have been able to resolve the dispute surrounding common water resources from the Hirmand river.
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This Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012, aerial photo shows the Helmand River in Helmand province, south of Kabul, Afghanistan (AP)
The longstanding dispute between Iran and Afghanistan over common water resources has been recently resolved following thorough bilateral discussions, Iran's interim ambassador to Afghanistan, Alireza Bikdeli, announced.
During an interview with TOLOnews, Bikdeli relayed Iran's commitment to bolstering bilateral relations with Afghanistan as part of its “neighborhood policy,” prioritizing economic ties as trade between the two countries has exceeded $2 billion in the past nine months.
Bikdeli expressed optimism about the future of bilateral ties, stating, “The coming year will be more successful in advancing mutual interests.”
Regarding issues related to water rights, he highlighted that recent negotiations between the two sides had led to a resolution of the longstanding dispute.
He added that during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s recent visit to Kabul, Afghan officials reaffirmed their commitment to the 1973 treaty and their readiness to address water-related challenges in the Sistan and Baluchestan region.
As per the treatment, Iran is to receive an annual share of 820 million cubic meters from Hirmand. Afghanistan's violation of this clause has exposed the lives of several Iranians to the risk of drought as civilians rely heavily on the river for drinking water, agriculture, and fishing.
The construction of many hydroelectric projects on the river, including the important Kamal Khan Dam in Afghanistan's Nimrouz province, and the Kajaki Dam 100 miles (160 km) northwest of Kandahar province, has caused a major rift between them.
Bikdeli also commended Afghanistan for its efforts in banning opium cultivation and curbing drug trafficking, affirming Iran’s readiness to collaborate with Afghanistan in combating drug smuggling and terrorism.
"The fight against terrorism and extremism is an important area of cooperation between our countries," he emphasized.
Read more: Iran urges Taliban to allow expert visits to Helmand Dam over shortage
