The war-ravaged nation of Afghanistan has offered to try and help bring about a rapprochement between the United States and Iran, even as Washington continues its campaign to isolate Teheran over its alleged nuclear weapons programme in violation of its nonproliferation obligations.
During his media conference with United States President Barack Obama at the end of their White House Oval Office summit, Afghan President Hamid Karzai was asked whether he had found his meetings with Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad 'to be helpful or hurtful' in his relations with the US.
"Afghanistan's position there is very clear from the very first day," said Karzai.
"And we have been clear with our brothers and counterparts in Iran on that as well, and with our other neighbours. Afghanistan is a partner and a friend with the United States," he said.
Karzai pointed out, "The United States is our greatest contributor to stability and reconstruction as the provider of nearly 80 per cent of the support that Afghanistan receives. And Afghanistan's desire to engage in a strong, steady, long-term relationship with America is one that we have expressed clearly and publicly and repeatedly."
At the same time, he noted, Wwe have also spoken with our American counterparts from the very beginning that Iran is our neighbour and a brother, and we want to have the best of relations with them."
Karzai spoke of Iran's assistance towards 'Afghanistan's reconstruction', and declared, "We wish that Afghanistan remains friendly to both, and is not a place where we are seen as a playground by our neighbours in any way."
He claimed that the US was not only cognisant and understanding, but supportive of Afghanistan's position vis-a-vis Iran, saying that Washington "has been very clear and supportive and understanding of Afghanistan's position, and this has been reflected in the discussions between us."
In the joint communique issued at the end of his summit with Obama "there was a reference to Afghanistan having friendly relations with its neighbours, and Iran is one of our neighbours. But we are distinct and clear on our relations with America and with Iran, as well."
Then in delivering the kicker, the Afghan leader said to peals of laughter, "We wish both countries the best. And, if there is anything we can do to make things better, call us."
