Afghanistan’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, Nooruddin Azizi, has called on Norwegian officials to help attract foreign investment into Afghanistan, particularly in key sectors like mining and small and medium enterprises.

During a recent meeting in Islamabad with Per Albert Ilsaas, the Chargé d’affaires of Norway, Minister Azizi emphasized the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s commitment to maintaining an open economic policy and fostering a supportive environment for private sector development.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, both sides reaffirmed the importance of sustained dialogue and communication between Afghanistan and Norway as part of broader efforts to promote economic cooperation.

The discussion also focused on expanding Afghanistan’s trade relations, especially its exports to European markets. Azizi stressed the need to strengthen economic ties with neighboring countries, including Pakistan and India, as part of a comprehensive plan aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth, generating employment, and curbing outward migration.

A major focus of the meeting was Afghanistan’s mining sector, which the Minister described as a vital component of the country's long-term development strategy. He urged Norwegian officials to consider investment opportunities in this area and to play a role in facilitating broader international engagement with Afghanistan’s economy.

The meeting highlighted a mutual interest in economic collaboration, with both parties agreeing on the need to deepen commercial ties and support Afghanistan’s path toward self-reliance and development. (ILKHA)