Iran supports inclusive govt in Kabul: Zarif

KABUL (Pajhwok): Tehran on Wednesday reiterated its stout support for the Afghanistan peace process, led and owned by the government in Kabul.

“Iran supports the Afghan government-led peace negotiations and preserving achievements of the past 19 years within the framework of the current constitution,” Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said.

At a meeting with Afghanistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mirwais Naab in Tehran on Wednesday, Zarif said the only way to ensure stability in Afghanistan was to give all groups representation in the government.

Iran had held clear discussions on the issue with neighbouring countries, Mehr News Agency quoted the foreign minister as saying.

Zarif voiced Iran’s readiness to inaugurate the strategic Khaf-Herat railroad project.

Naab thanked his host for Iran’s warm hospitality, cordial atmosphere for talks and the neighbour’s sympathy with Afghanistan over recent terrorist attacks in Kabul.

He welcomed Iran's principled stance on the Afghan-led peace process and negotiations. He hoped the two sides would finalise comprehensive cooperation documents soon.

PAN Monitor/mud