U.S.-Afghan partnership deal a source of concern for Iran

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ramin Mehmanparast has said that the U.S.-Afghanistan Strategic Partnership Agreement is a cause of concern for Iran.
Mehmanparast made the remarks in an interview with reporters on Saturday in reply to a question about the Enduring Strategic Partnership Agreement between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the United States of America, which was signed by U.S. President Barack Obama and Afghan President Hamid Karzai in Kabul on May 1.

According to Reuters, the agreement, which outlines the relationship between the two countries after the U.S.-led war ends in 2014, is not particularly specific, but it calls for the United States to provide training for Afghan troops and other aid through 2024.

Mehmanparast said, “The Islamic Republic of Iran expresses its concern about the conclusion of the strategic cooperation agreement between the United States and Afghanistan. The ambiguity about the future condition of the United States’ military bases in Afghanistan and the lack of transparency in the way the United States would carry out its security responsibilities are the causes of concern for Iran and regional countries.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran believes that the establishment of peace and security in Afghanistan is possible through the complete withdrawal of foreign forces, the closure of military bases, and dialogue among Afghans within the framework (set by) the High Peace Council.

“The conclusion of the strategic agreement with the United States not only will not resolve Afghanistan’s security problems but also, like 10 years ago, will further promote insecurity and instability in the country.”

Iran has repeatedly expressed concern over the presence of foreign forces in certain regional countries and has called for their complete withdrawal.