A five-day economic summit, titled the “Global Coordination Group for Afghanistan,” concluded in the United Arab Emirates, focusing on trade, aid, and economic issues concerning Afghanistan.
Participants emphasized the need for continued assistance to the Afghan people and the resumption of vital infrastructure projects.
Haji Obaidullah Sader Khail, head of the Afghan Business Council in the UAE and an attendee of the summit, stated that the World Bank was urged to complete its unfinished projects in Afghanistan. He also noted that the discussions underscored the importance of supporting female entrepreneurs, small businesses, and creating job opportunities for Afghan citizens.
The meeting, hosted by the United Nations, included representatives from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the World Bank, and diplomats from the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European countries. An Afghan delegation, including Sader Khail, was also present.
“We discussed the challenges facing Afghan traders and how they can contribute to providing essential goods and medicines at affordable prices,” Sader Khail said. He added that international representatives assured their commitment to addressing Afghanistan’s economic problems.
Key agenda items included the implementation of infrastructure projects, fostering small businesses, and expanding opportunities for female entrepreneurs. The summit also addressed the private sector’s difficulties and strategies to prevent the Taliban from accessing aid funds.
Seyar Qureshi, an economist, highlighted that over 100 participants, including donors, financial institutions, and private banks that once operated in Afghanistan, joined the summit to discuss economic reforms in the country.
A source familiar with the meeting told Amu that a follow-up summit is planned to be held in Kabul, organized by the UN. The meeting will bring together representatives from various countries, the Taliban, and Afghanistan’s business community to discuss economic development and humanitarian assistance.
Karen Decker, the U.S. Charge d’Affaires for Afghanistan, referenced the UAE summit in a statement, emphasizing its aim to ensure continued support for Afghanistan and facilitate pathways for development aid.
