Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi says that stability and durable peace in Afghanistan requires the formation of an inclusive government in the country to address the challenges.

Raisi made the remarks during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Wednesday.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry in a statement quoted Raisi as saying inclusion of all ethnic and political groups in the government is needed for security and stability in Afghanistan. “Formation of a broad-based government with the participation of all groups is the only way for stability and durable security in Afghanistan,” the Russian foreign ministry said quoting Raisi.

Putin also commented on Afghanistan, saying the situation in Afghanistan is worrisome. “Now, of course, both you and we are concerned about the current situation in Afghanistan. I would like to discuss all these questions with you and find out your position on these issues,” Putin told Raisi as they met.

The formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan has been called for by many regional countries at various meetings, as well as by the international community in general.

The Islamic Emirate, however, has repeatedly said the new government is inclusive and that issues around governance are an internal matter.

Raisi and Putin also discussed regional issues including their cooperation in Syria.