Joint Kazakh-Afghan business forum held in Kabul
Officials explore trade, railways, and investment as both countries aim to triple economic ties to $3 billion
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — At a major business forum in Kabul, Afghanistan and Kazakhstan outlined plans to significantly expand trade and infrastructure ties, setting a goal to triple bilateral trade to $3 billion.
The move is part of broader efforts to boost regional connectivity and economic integration across Central and South Asia.
Held as part of the third Kazakh-Afghan Business Forum in Kabul, the event brought together senior officials and business leaders to explore cooperation in infrastructure, food processing, and logistics.
A joint exhibition also showcased products from both countries, according to TOLOnews.
Nooruddin Azizi, acting minister of industry and commerce of Afghanistan, called Kazakhstan a “friend” and key transit partner for Afghan goods en route to Russia and China.
He said efforts are underway to expand public-private agreements and establish trade centers in Kabul and Almaty.
“We already import significantly from Kazakhstan and plan to increase that further. At the same time, we want to enhance our exports to achieve a more balanced trade relationship,” Azizi said.
Kazakhstan’s deputy prime minister and Minister of Trade, Serik Jumanğarin, announced readiness to collaborate on production and infrastructure projects, including agriculture, textiles, and food processing.
He also highlighted Kazakhstan’s interest in helping develop Afghanistan’s railway systems and regional transport corridors.
The Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), Roza Otunbayeva, welcomed the forum as a milestone in regional cooperation.
She noted that Afghanistan can benefit from Central Asia’s development experience, particularly in building industrial parks and sustainable infrastructure.
Private sector leaders also voiced their aspirations and concerns.
Sherbaz Kaminzada, head of the chamber of industries and mines, urged neighboring countries to begin importing Afghan-made products.
Mohammad Younus Mohmand of the chamber of commerce and investment called on Kazakhstan and other regional partners to advocate for the unfreezing of Afghan assets and international recognition.
Kabul Governor Aminullah Obaid appealed directly to investors.
“Take advantage of this golden opportunity and the security we offer. Invest here and help create jobs for our people,” he said.
Trade between the two countries reached $545 million in 2024, and both sides aim to significantly raise that figure as they explore joint ventures and infrastructure development.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
