Iran, Afghanistan team up to tackle environmental challenges
Iran has stepped up efforts to collaborate with Afghanistan on environmental issues, shifting focus from water rights disputes to broader ecological challenges.
In a recent visit to Afghanistan, Iranian officials proposed joint initiatives to restore the Hamoun Wetland and combat severe dust storms, which have devastating effects on both countries, IRNA reported.
“We suggested starting a joint project on environmental issues, such as reviving the Hamoun Wetland and tackling dust storms, which have severe impacts on people in both countries,” said Sediqeh Torabi, an official with Iran’s Department of Environment.
“This approach can pave the way for reviving the Hamoun Wetland and managing the drought crisis in a way that benefits all residents around it, whether Iranian or Afghanistani.”
The Hamoun Wetland, once a thriving ecosystem, has faced severe desiccation due to reduced water flow from the Helmand River, largely caused by Afghan dam projects. This has led to increased dust storms, affecting agricultural productivity and forcing migration in both Iran and Afghanistan.
Iran has emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to address these transboundary environmental challenges.
“Issues like dust storms are crucial for advancing environmental diplomacy with neighboring countries,” Torabi noted. Iran has also participated in regional workshops, including a meeting in Qatar, where countries shared strategies to combat dust storms.
The collaboration aims to leverage international support and technology to enhance environmental monitoring and mitigation efforts. Iran has signed agreements with international organizations to secure equipment for air pollution monitoring, aiming to improve data accuracy and develop effective solutions.