HERAT, Afghanistan — Iran’s top diplomat in Afghanistan, Alireza Bigdeli, said Afghan migrants living in Iran have played a “vital” role in supporting the country’s economic development, and called for stronger cultural and economic ties between the two neighbors.
Speaking during a visit to Herat to follow up on bilateral cooperation projects, Bigdeli described Iran-Afghanistan relations as a “rushing river” that must be safeguarded through consistent efforts to remove existing obstacles.
“These collaborations are rooted in shared history and culture and have endured for millennia,” Bigdeli said. “Now, it is the responsibility of officials and diplomats from both nations to protect and expand this legacy.”
According to the United Nations, Iran hosts close to four million Afghan nationals, making it one of the largest host countries for Afghan migrants globally.
Despite these historic ties, Iran’s migration policies have come under growing scrutiny. In recent years, Afghan migrants have faced increasing pressure amid rising deportations and reports of mistreatment.
Earlier this year, Iran’s Deputy Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni stated that the repatriation of Afghan migrants remains a priority for the Iranian government — a stance that has drawn concern from humanitarian organizations.
Bigdeli’s remarks come as both countries seek to navigate a complicated relationship shaped by shared cultural heritage, economic interdependence, and security concerns.
