Tehran: President Masoud Pezeshkian has directed political officials to intensify their efforts in securing Iran’s water rights from Afghanistan, as announced by the Energy Minister, Abbas Aliabadi.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Iran and Turkmenistan are entitled to water from the Hari River. However, the construction of the Salma Dam in Afghanistan necessitates negotiations over the Afghan-India Friendship Dam to ensure Iran receives its due share. Minister Aliabadi shared these developments on Tuesday during a ceremony marking the inauguration of 303 MW of renewable energy projects, alongside the launch of 710 MW of new renewable plants and 100 MW of energy efficiency initiatives.

Aliabadi highlighted Iran’s readiness for complete cooperation and noted that while extensive discussions have been held with Afghan authorities, Iran did not receive its full water allocation last year. He expressed optimism that increased rainfall this year might aid in securing the water share. The minister also mentioned ongoing diplomatic efforts, including two invitations extended to Afghan officials to visit Iran, with a third invitation ready if needed. Furthermore, he stated that Iranian authorities are willing to send a delegation to Afghanistan to pursue the matter directly and earnestly.