As Iran continues efforts to secure its water rights from the Taliban, the Group’s Ministry of Energy and Water has announced that Tehran is cooperating with the Taliban on water infrastructure projects.
According to the ministry’s statement, Mullah Abdul Latif Mansour, the Taliban’s Minister of Energy and Water, met with Alireza Bikdeli, Iran’s acting ambassador in Kabul, to discuss water management and cooperation.
During the meeting, the Iranian envoy stated that his country is determined to assist Afghanistan in water and energy development projects. The Taliban ministry also emphasised that both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing water and energy projects in Afghanistan.
Mansour welcomed increased cooperation with neighbouring countries, particularly in economic and development initiatives. The officials also discussed drought and water shortages, which remain pressing concerns in the region.
Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan, Iran has repeatedly urged them to restore the flow of the Helmand River to Iran. The Taliban, however, insist that the reduction in water flow is due to natural drought conditions rather than any deliberate obstruction.
In January, Iran’s Foreign Ministry urged the Taliban to ensure the continued flow of water and remove any obstacles. A spokesperson for the ministry said that Iran had conveyed strong objections to the Taliban regarding water restrictions and diversions.
