Afghanistan and Belarus have discussed ways to strengthen bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation during meetings held on the sidelines of the Afghanistan-Belarus Joint Economic and Trade Commission.

Afghan Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Mawlavi Ahmadullah Zahid held talks with senior representatives from Belarus’s Ministry of Commerce, Petroleum Administration and Investment Chamber.

The discussions focused on expanding bilateral trade volumes and increasing Afghan exports to the Belarusian market, as well as securing petroleum product imports from Belarus.

The two sides also explored opportunities for joint investment and industrial cooperation, with particular attention to the energy sector and strengthening links between the private sectors of both countries.

Both delegations emphasized the importance of making greater use of the economic potential of Afghanistan and Belarus and expanding commercial relations through joint ventures and direct business partnerships.

Belarusian officials expressed their readiness to establish direct contractual cooperation in transport logistics and the supply of petroleum products to Afghanistan, according to the discussions.

The proposed cooperation could provide Afghanistan with additional opportunities to diversify its sources of energy supplies while creating new channels for trade and transportation between the two countries.

Afghan officials also highlighted the importance of increasing exports and creating new opportunities for Afghan businesses to access international markets.

The talks included discussions on investment opportunities in Afghanistan and potential partnerships between companies from the two countries, particularly in industrial and energy-related fields.

Officials from both sides stressed that stronger private-sector connections could help translate bilateral agreements into concrete commercial projects and increase trade between Afghanistan and Belarus.

The meetings reflect Kabul’s continuing efforts to expand economic relations with countries beyond its traditional trading partners and strengthen regional and international commercial links.

Both delegations agreed on the importance of maintaining engagement and pursuing practical cooperation aimed at increasing trade, investment, transportation and energy ties between Afghanistan and Belarus. (ILKHA)