Turkish Envoy and OIC Discuss Afghanistan Amid Border Tensions and Refugee Regulations
The OIC ambassador and Turkish envoy discussed vital issues regarding Afghanistan, emphasizing ongoing collaboration to support its humanitarian needs. A ceasefire was agreed at Torkham border amid ongoing tensions, while Iran announced new rules affecting Afghan nationals residing within its borders. These developments highlight the importance of diplomatic efforts and regional cooperation in addressing Afghanistan’s challenges.
On Sunday, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet held discussions in Jeddah with Cihad Erginay, the director-general of South Asia at Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The meeting focused on a variety of issues concerning Afghanistan, including political, economic, and humanitarian matters. Both parties examined methods to tackle key concerns and affirmed their dedication to continued collaboration based on existing OIC resolutions to benefit the Afghan people.
During the meeting, Bakheet recognized Turkey’s significant contributions to the OIC’s objectives and emphasized the necessity of ongoing dialogue with Afghanistan’s authorities. Both sides reiterated their commitment to exchanging information and working towards mutual goals centered on Afghanistan’s peace, prosperity, and stability. This emphasizes the role of international cooperation in addressing Afghanistan’s challenges.
In another development concerning the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Torkham crossing authorities agreed to a temporary two-day ceasefire after recent hostilities. A Pakistani border official reported that discussions held at a tribal assembly, involving tribal leaders and a Afghan delegation, aimed to address ongoing tensions stemming from a checkpoint dispute that previously closed the crossing. Hundreds remain stranded during this time, with significant economic impacts reported by traders in the region.
Additionally, developments in Iran regarding the status of Afghan nationals have emerged, as officials outlined new regulations for residency and legal status. Various categories of Afghan nationals have been defined, detailing required documentation for legal residence in Iran. Notably, unauthorized foreigners will become ineligible for essential services by April 2025, adding pressure on Afghan refugees who lack documentation and face deportation risks. Iran currently hosts millions of Afghan refugees, highlighting the urgent need for clear legal pathways and support systems.
The discussions between Turkey and the OIC underscore an essential focus on addressing Afghanistan’s political, economic, and humanitarian issues. The recent ceasefire agreement at the Torkham border presents a temporary respite from ongoing tensions, while Iran’s new regulations for Afghan nationals highlight significant challenges for refugees. These developments reflect the critical nature of international collaboration and dialogue in navigating the complex issues facing Afghanistan and its people.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
