On August 17, a high-ranking delegation from Uzbekistan, led by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, visited Afghanistan for a series of crucial meetings. The discussions between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan underscored the strengthening ties between these neighboring countries, with a focus on trade, energy, and mutual cooperation.
In Kabul, Prime Minister Aripov met with key Afghan leaders, including Abdul Ghani Baradar, Acting Prime Minister of Afghanistan, Abdul Salam Hanafi, and Amir Khan Muttaqi. These bilateral meetings revolved around deepening the relationship between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration in achieving sustainable development.
The leaders emphasized that the relationship between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan is rooted in friendship, cooperation, and good neighborliness. Uzbekistan views Afghanistan as an integral part of Central Asia, and this perspective was reiterated during the talks. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has consistently stressed that meaningful international dialogue with Afghanistan is essential for ensuring peace and stability in the region.
One of the key topics discussed was the constructive role of Afghanistan in connecting Central and South Asia. In 2022, Uzbekistan played a pivotal role in the adoption of a United Nations General Assembly resolution that recognized Afghanistan’s significant role in bridging these regions. As a result, Uzbekistan became one of the first countries to establish a constructive dialogue with Afghanistan’s interim government.
The meetings explored avenues for boosting trade relations between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, with plans to elevate energy cooperation to a new level. Joint initiatives for developing copper, iron, and oil-gas deposits were also discussed. Additionally, the talks covered expanding collaboration in transport logistics, agriculture, education, and regional partnerships.
A notable goal set during the discussions was to increase bilateral trade turnover to $1 billion by the end of this year and to $3 billion in the near future. Both sides acknowledged that there are untapped resources that could be harnessed to achieve these ambitious targets. The importance of agreements on protecting bilateral investments and facilitating preferential trade was highlighted as critical for further advancing economic cooperation.
The meetings concluded with the signing of several key agreements, reflecting the shared commitment to maintaining and enhancing dialogue. These documents lay the foundation for long-term collaboration and sustained growth in multiple sectors.
Strengthening Cooperation Between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan
The cooperation between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan continues to develop positively, driven by shared interests in regional connectivity, trade, and economic development. The recent meetings demonstrate a strategic partnership that is poised to bring about mutual benefits and long-term stability.
The interactions between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan signify a growing alliance that holds great potential for regional stability and economic progress. As both nations work together, the initiatives discussed in Kabul could lead to significant benefits for the broader region.
Sources: As reported by the government portal of Uzbekistan.
