TEHRAN, Dec. 09 (MNA) � Iranian FM Zarif says new destabilizing factors in Afghanistan such as ISIL terrorist group, divisions within Taliban and ISIL possible profiting of the discord are matters of great concern for the region and the world.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif made the remark on Wednesday during his speech at the fifth ministerial conference of�Heart of Asia- Istanbul Process in Islamabad, Pakistan.

�We must not�allow ISIL to turn Afghanistan into their battleground. Neglecting these facts will lead to unpredictable and catastrophic consequences,� Zarif stressed.

He voiced his regret over the fact that certain countries still consider extremism and terrorism as capitals for reaching their short-term objectives, saying �the fact of the matter is that they keep forgetting that extremists will always bite the hands that feed them.�

The Iranian top diplomat went on to say that extremism, terrorism and narcotics pose great challenges and threats to Afghanistan, the region and the whole world, saying those factors are �unfortunately expanding their area of influence� in the south Asian country.

Zarif stressed however that the Islamic Republic of Iran will always remain by Afghanistan�s side during hard times, especially now that Afghanistan has begun a new chapter in its political life by forming a Government of National Unity.

The Iranian minister maintained that the challenges facing Afghanistan and the region are completely related and dependent on one another, adding �without the revenue from selling narcotics, terrorist groups will not be able to get their hands on the necessary financial resources. On the other hand, drug trafficking rings need logistical capabilities of terrorist groups in order to smuggle their narcotics.�

�If we really want the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking to succeed, we must cooperate with one another and strengthen our interactions in the fields of politics, military and security,� he stressed.

Zarif concluded his speech by reassuring the people and government of Afghanistan that the Islamic Republic will continue its assistance for restoring Afghanistan to a safe, stable and thriving position.

The two-day conference titled 'Heart of Asia- Istanbul Process' opened today December 9 at ministerial level with attendance of more than 40 member and supporter countries as well as more 10 international and regional bodies aiming to strengthen cooperation to resolve issues and improve Afghanistan�s security.

By Mehr News Agency