KABUL — Afghan and Uzbek investors have signed a $4.5 million trade agreement in Kabul, the Taliban-run Ministry of Industry and Commerce announced on Sunday.
The agreement was finalized at the conclusion of a bilateral economic meeting, which included representatives from the private sector of both countries, according to a statement from the ministry.
Ahmadullah Zahid, the Taliban’s deputy minister of industry and commerce, called the deal “a positive step” toward strengthening economic ties between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. He also urged Uzbek authorities to enhance cooperation in balancing trade flows between the two countries.
The meeting brought together officials from Afghanistan’s Chambers of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, along with Azizbek Salakhuddinov, the head of Uzbekistan’s Investment Authority. The discussions culminated in the signing of a joint trade contract worth $4.5 million.
Zahid acknowledged that while relations between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan remain strong, economic cooperation has faced challenges. He expressed hope that the new trade agreement would help increase Afghanistan’s exports to Uzbekistan and international markets.
“The private sector plays a crucial role in trade growth, and we urge investors to collaborate in achieving the goal of $3 billion in joint trade,” Zahid said.
Despite growing trade partnerships, Afghan traders have repeatedly voiced concerns over restrictions on Afghanistan’s banking system and financial transactions, which continue to complicate cross-border commerce.
